Although the first year of high school is often seen as both a milestone and a struggle, the following of certain guidelines enables any freshman to get through the year without too much trouble. Unfortunately, certain freshman, including myself last year, have an incapability to listen to older, more experienced students. Freshmen may think that they will achieve their goals, no matter how rigorous the classes or numerous the extracurricular activities. Unfortunately, high school is nothing like middle school, and achievement is not as easy as it may seem.
Although some look forward to challenging classes, the fact that they should not be taken only for bragging rights should be stressed. Often, there is competition between students regarding how hard one’s classes are, or how many clubs one is in, while in the long run, this is most likely only a minuscule part of what one remembers of his high school career.
Classes should be taken in accordance with interest and skill. If math or science are strong points, and interesting to the student, the student should challenge himself with advanced math or science. However, advanced classes are not to be underestimated, and require the full attention of the student; if this is not what the student intends, then the class is not worth taking. Unlike previous years, high school requires studying, regardless of class choice. Rigorous classes take extra studying, yet in the long run are rewarding at the end of the year, should the student succeed.
Clubs, too, are often enjoyable, but can also be overdone. During the activities fair, anyone can sign up for every club he finds, forgetting that time management plays a key part in high school success. If the student believes that colleges want to see 100 clubs, he is mistaken. Two to four clubs, in which a student has a significant role, usually suffice, depending on the college.
Although older often students give great advice, only the counselors truly know everything there is to know about classes, activities and general success.
