How to make the most of your high school years

School will soon be back in session, make the best of it!

It’s August and a lot of individuals will be going back to school at the end of this month. Many will be freshman in high school; in fact anyone that was born in 2003 will be starting high school this year and will be at a brand new school. A lot of people define high school as the “awkward years” but they don’t have to be. Also it goes by rather fast; it will be over before you know it, so you want to make the best of your academia before you’re off to college. Here are five tips to help you get through your high school years like 1, 2, 3.

Get good grades – After all, no matter what level of education you are at you want to get the best grades you can possibly get. Doing well in elementary school and junior high is wonderful and all, but excelling in high school is crucial. After all, how you do in high school determines what college you are going to and if you do well in high school you will have more options for college. In other words, there is no time to slack off.

Play a sport and/or join a club – There are so many reasons to either play a sport or join a club in high school. Not only is being in a club/ playing a sport a lot of fun, it helps all students to learn how to constructively use their leisure time. Remember, every moment you spend is a moment you’re not getting back, so why not do something constructive?  When it comes to clubs and sports there is something for everyone. Some examples include, (depending on what school you attend) football, basketball, lacrosse, field hockey, cheerleading, soccer, cross country, track, volleyball, swimming, wrestling, golf, softball, ultimate frisbee, pep squad, drill team, yearbook committee, school newspaper and girl up just to name a few. Not to mention, participating in a sport/club looks great on your college application.

Avoid drama – In high school; sadly there will be drama and people talking behind people’s backs. You don’t want to get in to disagreements or get into a physical altercation and get suspended. If you see people sitting around gossiping about people, don’t even get involved, just walk away.

Spend your summers wisely – During the summer you will have plenty of free time and you really need to think of how you are going to use that time. The last thing you want to do is spend the whole summer just sitting in front of the TV. During the summer you can get a part time job or volunteer. Both of these things are fantastic. Getting a part time job in high school is great because you’re getting work experience at a young age and can get your resume started all while getting paid (you can even get your school clothes for the next year #independence). Volunteering is excellent too because you are giving back to the community and volunteer work really stands out on a resume.

Be outgoing – As a freshman things can be a bit overwhelming because you are starting at a new school. But you shouldn’t let that consume you. Don’t be afraid to initiate conversation and be the life of the party. Believe it or not, some of the friendships that you make in high school will end up being lifelong.