How to Survive High School 101

Cast and crew of St. Agnes Academy’s spring musical, “Mame.”

As summer fades and the dreaded school supply commercials begin, students scramble to finish their summer reading and bask in the last sunbeams of their vacation. However, some of these students are making their way into their freshman year of high school.

Switching schools can be overwhelming, especially when the classes are large, the people new, and the facilities unexplored. Perhaps the most intimidating part of it all is the upperclassmen. As frightening as they can seem, the older students provide helpful tips and guidance gained from their own experiences.

Hanna Bowman, a sophomore at St. Agnes Academy, believes that joining extracurricular activities is a great way to get to know new people. She advises newcomers to “be completely open about what you want to do—you won’t regret it!” Bowman adds that her favorite part of freshman year was joining theatre, claiming that “it was the best thing that ever happened to me.”

Toni Hansen, a senior, shares a summary of her experiences through the first years of high school.

“My advice to underclassmen is to use your time well,” Hansen says, “so make sure you have time for school and yourself in a balanced way.” Toni and Hannah’s advice serves as a soothing reminder to be yourself and enjoy the time you have in high school (you still have homework though!).