Stop worrying- Nobody is focused on what you’re wearing, how your hair is done or how you walk. You’re a small fish in big pond now. Everyone is focusing on themselves.

You don’t look stupid asking for help- Asking for help is the responsible thing to do. Always take initiative to ask questions, be pulled for PREP and use resources like the learning commons and after school tutoring. You are in high school now. You are in charge of your own success.

Get involved- Participating in clubs, sports and activities make high school much more enjoyable. Don’t be afraid to get involved with something you like in fear of “being weird..’

Teachers are actually really cool- If you respect your teachers and get to know them, they can be great mentors. Additionally good relationships with your teachers will help you be successful in class.

Bring a sweatshirt- as silly as it sounds, the temperature at Linganore fluctuates a lot, day to day and room to room, so always make sure you have layers to adjust appropriately.

Attendance- the easiest way to succeed in high school is to just show up. Being present keeps you from getting behind and shows teachers that you are putting in the effort, it is one the easiest ways to get good grades.

Time management- high school is a different environment and workload than middle school. It is completely feasible to get all your work done, but managing your time is very important to being successful.

Time flies- Not to be cliché, but when everyone says that the time goes by quickly, it really does. It will probably seem like a drag in the moment and of course there will be good days and bad, but you want to sincerely make the most of everyday. Before you know it, freshman year will be over.

Start off the year with healthy routines- Having a routine in the morning can help with getting ready in the morning, especially when you wake up early and are half asleep

Hallway walking- As routine as it is, class transitions in the hallway can be very hectic. To keep stress free, know where you will walk from class to class. Always walk on the right side of the hallway and at decent pace to keep up with the flow of students. On stairwells always travel on the right side as well. Do not stop or stand in the middle of the hallway.

Focus on your future- It’s easy to get caught up with many things in high school. What’s important to remember is that this is a time to grow yourself and prepare for your future.

Listen to and respect your parents- While they may seem annoying at times, they really do have your best interest in mind. They know what is best for you, no matter how much you might not like it.

Choose classes wisely- When you choose classes, there are many things to know. First of all make sure you choose classes YOU’RE interested in. Do not pick classes hoping to be with your friends because odds are, you won’t be. Also make sure you’re picking classes that are at an appropriate level. Don’t over do yourself especially if you are consumed in extracurriculars like sports, but make sure you are challenging yourself.

Get enough sleep- Don’t wait too long after school to start your homework and end up staying up until 1 am. Getting at least 8 hours of sleep a night makes a huge difference, and can actually improve your memory- meaning you’ll have to study less and not stay up all night before a big test.

You don’t have to know what you want to do for your career- Sometimes it may feel like there’s pressure to know what you want your career to be, but you’re still very young. Sign up for classes and take opportunities you find interesting and it will all work out.