Freshman Advice: Six Tips From Those Who Know

Entering high school as a freshman is a time of change, new opportunities, and difficult challenges. Sometimes in order to start something new, it’s easier to ask for advice from people who have already gone through it. After asking seniors and teachers, here are the most helpful tips to survive freshman year at PAHS. 

Tip Number One: Figure out your Environment.

When asked about the difficulties of freshman year, senior Evan Johnson said “I think the hardest part is just the first week of high school and getting used to the change of scenery.” Given as most freshman are entering from Wind Gap Middle School, a one floor school with classrooms sectioned by grade level, entering into the three story high school may feel daunting. 

However, navigation can be as easy as becoming familiar with neighboring classrooms and taking a few trips around the school. Additionally, the biggest mistake freshmen make is walking on the wrong side of the hallway, so remember to always stay to the right when walking. 

Tip Number Two: Remember Your Deadlines.

Most of the seniors reported that the most difficult part of transitioning into high school was the difference in work load. When asked about how to combat this problem, Ella Davis said “Make sure you learn how to manage everything.” Many upperclassmen recommend regularly checking Google Classroom deadlines or starting to keep track of assignments in an agenda in order to stay on top of everything, especially during weeks where there are plenty of tests or deadlines.

Tip Number Three: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help!

When entering high school, new students may get lost or be confused about assignments and have several questions. Brett Kunkle, who teaches Environmental Science for freshmen, stated “To make the most of your time, focus on your work, avoid procrastination, and always ask questions.” Asking questions is one of the biggest tips given to freshmen from seniors, with senior Ella Mamana saying “Teachers are always willing to help if you reach out.” PAHS is blessed to have such an amazing staff of teachers who will answer any questions you may have, which can be as simple as sending an email.

Tip Number Four: Get Involved. Get Involved. Get Involved. 

A famous piece of advice is from Krista Campbell, who teaches Honors English 9. Every student who has ever walked into her classroom has heard her famous quote: “Do you know who likes high school?  The people who get involved!” 

Every piece of advice given has included a similar statement, with heavy encouragement to be an active member of PAHS. PAHS offers a plethora of different extracurricular activities, clubs, and sports to join, allowing for various ways to get involved. PAHS offers activities for every student, ranging from Trivia Club, to Chorus, to Mock Trial, to sports of many kinds. It’s never too late to be a part of a good community. 

Tip Number Five: Find a Good Balance.

Time management is very important when entering high school. Freshmen will find that most, if not all, of all teachers will recommend students to join new activities and try new things. However, handling both schoolwork and activities can lead to stress and intense procrastination. Overloading on different afterschool activities and difficult classes to the point where one has no free time is not advised. 

On the topic of activities, senior Kelton Giamoni stated that many clubs and sports “require more time and more dedication before which may make balancing school and said activities more difficult.” With this in mind, it is still important to try new things and accept challenges. Finding the key balance between doing too much and doing too little is key to avoiding burnout.

Tip Number Six: Don’t Take High School for Granted.