Most of us have experienced that first day of school, saying hi to your friends you haven't seen all summer, greeting teachers, etc, etc. But that first day of high school is different. If your school is like mine, they have a freshman orientation week the week before school begins. It's fun and you get to meet all these new people but once the whole school is in the building, you have to learn your way around. I know it from personal experience. So here are some tips and tricks and do's and don'ts.
Grades are Important
As much as you think freshman year grades won't be important, they are. Colleges look at your transcripts, yeah all of them, but they won't stress freshman year a lot. Just remember freshman year grades help build your GPA and they are necessary.
Upperclassmen...yikes
Not all upperclassmen are bad. I know a few that I am very good friends with today but I don't flaunt that. You shouldn't either. Just because you have older friends doesn't mean they are the most trustworthy. Don't talk about other people to those upperclassmen because nine times out of ten they know who it is. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but your senior boyfriend doesn't love you. I know from experience. All they want is a homecoming date and sex.
Girls are Awful
I attend a single-gender school (all girls) and let me tell you about it. We have a single-gender school (all boys) that pairs with us. We do dances together, sports, masses, etc. Girls will "call dibs" and are ruthless when it comes to a hot guy. They will tear down the confidence of the most beautiful girl just because she likes a 4/10 guy that you thought you were talking to. These girls are goblins.
No One Wants to See It
Before you throw your DARE knowledge in the trash, be safe about it. Don't be the freshman that pukes everywhere at a party, it'll stick with you. If you smoke or vape please oh please don't post it on your snap story. So many things can go wrong. And no one wants to see eight minutes of you and your blunt.
Snitches. They're Everywhere.
This goes with the last section. Don't post on your story. It can be sent or showed to your principal and, if worse leads to worse, you'll be suspended or expelled. Even if it's legal in your state you're still underage.
You're Gonna Get Lost
Freshman orientation guides will help you get to classes and show you how to get from here to there on your schedule, but once everyone is in the school it's kind of difficult. I've known my schedule for months and I still mix up classrooms.
Everyone is Fake
Sorry that I have to spoil this, but even your best friends aren't telling you something. I had a totally different friend group at the beginning of the year and I have an entirely different friend group now. I was so uncomfortable with my first group of friends and my friends now are a second family for me. It's going to take some time to find your people, so don't spill all of your secrets until you're sure who has your best interest.
Participate, Trust Me
I participated in all of the school's spirit days and dances, let me tell you, it was AMAZING. It is awesome to see all your friends and faculty dressed up or helping in assemblies. Join clubs and sports. I didn't join clubs and I was so upset. I'm definitely joining next year.
Have Fun
It's not bad to spend a weekend with your friends. Experience Friday night lights, go to amusement parks, date that guy, take chances, be yourself. High school is what you make of it so have fun.
