The first year of high school is a time that brings both excitement and anxiety to incoming 9th graders, as high school holds higher expectations.
Transitioning from middle to high school can be a scary experience for most, especially given the size difference between the two buildings. It can initially seem daunting if freshman have no one to support them during this period.
“The high school is a lot bigger, so it took a bit to adjust to the high school and I used a map for the first week,” said freshman Juniper L.
Reaching out to administrators or other students for help can seem daunting, but everyone is always there to offer support.
“I asked teachers around [the school], and then eventually it didn’t seem as big,” said Juniper L.
Students and alumni often give the advice of getting involved at CHS all the time. The people truly make the place, and the path to meeting new people starts with stepping out of one’s comfort zone. New students never know the people they may meet or the new hobbies they can acquire through new clubs or sports.
“I’m trying clubs that I’m not used to doing, and it opened up so many experiences for me, which inspired me to try [joining] the Courant,” said freshman Crista S.
Culture at the high school in contrast to the middle school can be intimidating, so it is helpful to know that everything the freshman are going through is normal, and they’re not alone. People have gone through the same experiences.
“Don’t be scared to talk to other people, because we’re all nervous,” said Crista S.
Teachers have also been through at all, and know the best way to help alleviate any concerns or stressers.
“Your teachers are there to help you, so don’t be afraid to ask them for help too,” said Crista S.
Upperclassmen have lived through freshman year too, and are still in the building making them great people to go to for advice, or comfort. They understand what it’s like to feel out of place in a school where everyone is so united, so they can help to find that sense of belonging.
“Be open to making friends with upperclassmen,” said freshman Anthony C.
It’s always reassuring to know that new students have people from different grades to lean on that can give advice and support that they may not get from other resources.
“I have a few upperclassman friends from volleyball, and I see them all the time in the hallways. They always say hi to me, it’s very nice,” said Anthony C.◼️
