The start of the school year can be a bit hectic, but it’s critical to get off on the right foot. Whether you are in your first year of high school or your last, you’ll want to approach your first month of school with a plan. Here are six ways to ensure this school year provides the best support for your future choices and opportunities:
1. Attend Your School Clubs Fair
Many schools hold a club fair at the beginning of the school year. Decide which clubs you’d like to join, then find out how you can get involved with those organizations. In your freshman and sophomore years, clubs can be used to explore different fields of interest. As a junior and senior it’s more important to begin to narrow the funnel and identify one or two extracurriculars on which to focus. When you find a club that you are super interested in, find ways to make an impact for the group. Leadership positions are great, but having a positive impact and collaborating with other club members for a common goal is just as important.
2. Meet Your Teachers
It only takes a few minutes to introduce yourself to your teachers, whether that is through meeting them before or after class or during office hours. This is an essential first step so that the teacher will know your name and face. It will make it easier for you in the future, when you may need their help or a letter of recommendation. Teachers are happy to help you any way they can. If you need help, make sure to ask for it.
3. Create a Fitness Plan
Whether you play a sport or just want to maintain a healthy body, it’s important to incorporate a fitness plan into your high school schedule. Many students do yoga stretching to reduce stress, loosen tight muscles and improve flexibility. Studies have shown that regular exercise can improve your energy levels and focus. Choose an exercise routine that works well with your schedule, block off that time in your calendar and try your best to stick to your plan.
4. Read Your Class Syllabus
At the beginning of each course, teachers will share their class syllabus. A syllabus is your guide to a course and what will be expected of you in the course. Generally, it will include course policies, rules and regulations, required texts, and a schedule of assignments. A syllabus can tell you nearly everything you need to know about how a course will be run and what is expected of you. It details the course requirements, assignments and deadlines, participation expectations, and how your grade is calculated. It will often include the due dates for exams and major assignments. If available, be sure to read the syllabus carefully before making your enrollment decision.
5. Set Academic Goals
Setting goals is one of the keys to succeeding in school. It involves careful planning and consideration. These objectives will determine how much time you will allot to a specific task or hobby. Writing your goals down on paper helps to define your thoughts, making you focus on the task at hand. Be sure that your goals are realistic and attainable. Keep track of your progress by checking your list of goals from time to time.
6. Advocate for Yourself
Up until now, your parents or guardian may have been the person who advocated for you to your teachers. Now that you’re in high school, you need the skills to advocate for yourself.
If you find yourself struggling with a new concept taught in your class, or maybe you need more clarification about an assignment, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You can attend the teacher’s office hours, arrive early to class to see if the teacher can help you then, or email the teacher your question.
If you can’t resolve an issue with the teacher, work with your parents as “behind the scene” coaches to set a plan that may include meeting with your school counselor or advisor. Always remember to speak respectfully and give them ample time to respond to your concerns.