Every year, new freshmen enter Fallston High School just as nervous as the previous freshmen before them, and that is completely normal. Despite the normalcy of it all, that doesn’t just magically solve the anxiety that follows it. However, there are things that can help, like knowledge from peers.
In order to lessen the stress that might be heavy on your mind, below is a multitude of ‘freebie’ advice from a current FHS 9th grader for all rising reshmen!
- Work
With an alternating schedule of A-days and B-days, you may find it easier to make it until the day before to complete schoolwork or homework, but that is an unhealthy habit. “I know that since it’s a block schedule you would think to just do it the next day,” Freshman Emmalea Sheckells said. “But it’s always better to get it done the night you get it because you never know what work will be thrown at you.” Work is exhausting, it piles up fast, and without proper balance you will surely fall behind. It may seem overwhelming, and at times it is, but practicing your responsibility in the beginning of high school will help you permanently. Emmalea reinforced that by saying, “You will think that you will just figure everything out when you get older, but no, start now and you will be grateful.”
- Sports
Sports are a huge commitment and a lot of work, on top of schoolwork and other activities. There are practices every day after school for hours on end, but despite that, there are a multitude of benefits. “I like that with sports teams, [connections are made],” Emmalea stated. “You are with these people every day for months and definitely grow a bond with people.” Sports aid both your physical and mental well-being and provide physical activity and dopamine that will boost your overall mental health for your day-to-day life.
- Clubs
In high school it’s everyone’s dream to find their own group of people who understand their interests and hobbies. The best way to find your people is through participating in after-school activities like clubs! Fallston has a plethora of opportunities for students to choose from for a wide range of interests. There are clubs for each world language, athletic clubs, fine art clubs, niche interest clubs, and much more. “Just make sure to enjoy your time in high school,” Emmalea said. “Focus on your grades but make sure to hang out with friends and have a life outside of school.”
- Day-to-day
Remember, “fitting in” won’t make you happy. Find the people who understand you for you and accept you just how you are. Trying to be someone you’re not just for the sake of being some unachievable “norm” is never worth the effort and distress. Be true to you and take breaks when you need to, and you’ll do just fine. Good luck rising freshmen!
