2 minute read
Five Tips for Incoming High School Freshmen
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By Shelby Falahat, Junior Reporter, SRVHS
Students approaching their freshmen year in high school tend to fantasize about the years ahead of them. While gathering information from movies, the internet, and peers that have experienced high school, students create a positive or negative image of high school in their minds. As I begin my senior year at SRVHS, I have come to learn that your high school experience is only as good as you make it. The decisions students make beginning their first semester and throughout their four years, ultimately sets them up for their successes and failures.
About four years ago, I graduated eighth grade from a small private school with my 24 other classmates. When the first day of my freshman year began, I had no idea what to expect. After leaving my friends of nine years behind, I was obviously nervous about the new friends I was going to make and how public school would differ from private school.
Once I got through my first few weeks of school, however, I learned the most important lesson that changed my experience immediately. I learned that while we are all unique individuals, life transitions do tend to bring commonality amongst us - in at least the fears we face and the anxiety we feel.
In high school, students tend to believe that the person next to them has it easier or is doing better than them. I encourage incoming students to realize that we have more in common than we think. With that mindset, perhaps students would feel a little less pressure, socially and academically. Undoubtedly, high school can be competitive, SRVHS encourages students and staff members to unite together. By embracing teamwork, the high school experience students hope for will become their reality.
the day, incoming freshmen just need to remember that everything gets better, one step at a time. Soon enough, students feel a part of the SRVHS community and establish their own relationships with their peers, staff members, and teachers.
Although my transition to high school was difficult at times, the growth as a result of all the challenges was worth it. At the end of
San Ramon Valley High School truly strives to create a friendly environment to unite students. Always remember, we are called the “Home of Champions” for a reason. SRVHS is extremely excited to welcome our incoming Wolves in the new school year!
Here are my top 5 tips to make your high school career great:
1. Establish a relationship with your school counselor early in your freshman year - they are extremely helpful.
2. Attend school dances, rallies, and football games - they are a great way to make friends and get involved in our school community.
3. When deciding on what AP courses to take, choose classes that interest you and that you are strongest in - don’t choose a class just because your friend is taking it.
4. Talk to your teachers in person when they are available about grades - they prefer that.
5. Begin preparing for the SAT/ACT exam in the summer of your sophomore year - personally, Khan Academy was extremely helpful in helping me prepare for the SAT.
Shelby Falahat is a Junior at San Ramon Valley High School. She loves writing as a tool to express herself as well as learn about the world around her. She also has a passion for working with children. Recently, Shelby has had the opportunity to work at Kumon, which has allowed her to teach young students math and reading. In addition, she loves to travel with her family across the globe.
