Over the course of your freshman year at Darlington, you will learn so much – not only about school, but about yourself and others. Going into my freshman year, I honestly thought it was going to be like high school is pictured in the movies, but let me assure you that it’s nothing like that.
Here’s some of my quick advice for new freshmen:
1. Become involved in anything and everything. Your freshman year will be so much better if you put yourself out there and are willing to try new things. Darlington has so many different clubs, sports, classes and activities that you can be part of.
2. Go to Homecoming. I know going to your first high school dance can be stressful (especially for us girls). Don’t stress! I promise you will get a date and have a great time.
3. Push yourself in the classroom. In the beginning, high school might seem like a breeze, but let me assure you it picks up quickly. If you feel like you aren’t being challenged in a class or it seems to be a breeze, you need to move up. I know challenging yourself doesn’t always seem like the fun thing to do, but it’s totally worth it.
4. DO NOT PROCRASTINATE! I personally was very on top of it at the beginning of the year, but just like anyone else, I became lazy and didn’t want to work as hard. I promise high school will seem a whole lot easier if you turn those papers in on time and do your homework as soon as possible.
5. You will find your friend group. At the beginning of my freshman year, I really struggled with friendships; what they say about people changing after middle school is so true. I struggled a lot socially, which caused me to almost leave Darlington, but I hung in there and I’m so glad I did! At Darlington, we are given the chance to make friends from all over the world, which I did not take advantage of right away like I should have. Just remember that if you think you’re lonely, there are kids in your grade who are thousands of miles away from home and came to Darlington not knowing anyone at all.
6. The teachers here are so understanding and are always willing to help. High school is filled with so many absolutely amazing teachers like Mrs. Cleveland, Ms. Weaver and there are so many more. All of the teachers are constantly willing to help you, whether it be through email, text or even setting up a time to chat. Don’t be afraid to ask questions in class because there are no stupid questions, and the thing is, I bet if you ask a question you’ll be helping one of your other classmates out, too.
7. Use your time wisely. The beginning of my freshman year, I did not take full advantage of my free period at all. If you really want to succeed in school and don’t want to be up all night, you need to use your free period effectively to get a head start on homework and/or study. I know doing homework doesn’t sound like a lot of fun, but just remember that you definitely aren’t going to want to do it when you get home late after your sport or after-school activity. Use your free period and even your lunch period wisely.
