Transitioning from middle school to high school can be pretty intimidating, so here are ten tips on how to make it easier.
1. Do your homework
This one is pretty obvious but it can be really easy to procrastinate and just not do homework assignments. As you move into high school, you will quickly realize that it often entails a lot more homework than in previous years. You really need to do your homework in high school because: 1.) there is more homework; 2.) it becomes a bigger portion of your grade in the class; 3.) it will help you get a better understanding of the material you are learning and your class; and 4.) some teachers will randomly call on students to answer questions about the homework.
2. Stay organized
I’ve seen so many middle schoolers, including my younger brother, that have random wrinkled papers everywhere and they have to dig through them all to find the one they need. I would recommend getting different folders for each class so you can keep your papers organized. I also like to have a folder that I put all my papers I need to get done in, so when I get home I don’t have to go through each folder to find my homework. It is also really helpful to make a list of all the things you need to get done so you don’t forget anything.
3. Personal hygiene
I think I speak for most of the teachers and students when I say this: please shower and put on deodorant. I think this is pretty self-explanatory but some people still don’t get it. Also, perfume and cologne are good, but please don’t go overboard.
4. Colorful pens and highlighters
I use my colored pens and highlighters all the time. They help make note-taking more fun and make things stand out in your notes, which can help you remember things better.
5. Be kind
Always keep in mind that you don’t know how much your words can affect someone, so you should strive to be the person who makes others feel better, not worse.
6. Be respectful
Honestly, no one thinks you’re cool for being disrespectful. If you want to be respected, you need to respect yourself, your peers, and your teachers.
7. Get help if you need it
It can be really intimidating to ask questions, but I encourage you to do so if you don’t understand something. I find it a lot easier to wait until after class to ask questions privately. The teachers are there to help you learn and understand the material, so they expect you to have questions, and they want you to ask them.
8. Prioritize getting enough sleep
I’m sure you’ve heard this a million times, but sleep really is extremely important. It is essential for performing your best not only in school, but also in sports and other activities.
9. Make time for yourself
Self-care is really important. You should always make time to rest and do things you enjoy.
10. Choose your classes based on your future plans
If you have a career path in mind that you plan on pursuing, it can be very helpful to choose classes that are related to that career path. Don’t be afraid to experiment and take classes that you might be interested in because you never know what you might like or develop a passion for.
