My Advice to Freshmen
As a sophomore, it has only been a mere few months since I, too, was a freshman. Freshman year was full of bumps and turns. However, I came out somewhat successful. What I’m here to do now is pass on my “wisdom” to you to ensure you won’t make the same mistakes I did.
First and foremost, get involved! One of the best things about Bacon is the multitude of clubs, sports, and other opportunities that you are offered. Other than the fact that it boosts your future college application, any activities that you do are a way to become friends with likeminded people in any grade. Bacon surely has a club for you, but if not, you could always start a new one!
Speaking of friendships, freshman year is probably going to bring you many changes in your social circle. You’ll likely make and lose friends due to varying reasons. I, for one, grew apart from people solely because we never saw each other. Of course this is high school so relationships will likely also be broken over petty drama. Even though many like to partake in saying bad things about people behind their backs and it might be entertaining in the moment, sometime down the road you’ll feel guilt and remorse for these actions. If you have an issue with someone, take it up with them yourself because at the end of the day, you talking about it with a person who’s impartial isn’t going to fix the situation.
My next piece of advice is to challenge yourself. This may not apply right now since we’re far past class selections, but when the time comes in April to choose your sophomore classes, try to go above and beyond and take more difficult courses . Try out some honors or maybe even AP courses. Even though they require you to spend more time and effort on your work, but you will be immersed in subjects that can actually be pretty interesting.
Lastly, and most importantly, prioritize school but don’t let it consume you. Yes, this is high school and yes, it can suck, but recognize the fact that you’re here to learn, and some people aren’t lucky enough to have that opportunity. Be grateful. Always do your homework and always study for tests. If you don't, you’ll see your GPA at the end of the year and be mad at yourself because you could’ve done so much better. Try not to let this ruin your life though and, to reference one of my earlier points, do some activity other than school to keep you sane. If you’re having a rough time, talk to one of your teachers because, contrary to popular belief, they’re here to help you!
High school is a wild four years. Even though it may seem like an eternity when you’re watching the clock during math class, these next few years are going to zoom by. Try to make the best of your experience here at Bacon. Don’t spend four whole years of your life with a frown on your face wishing time away. You can’t be fully successful when you’re unhappy. The transition from middle school to high school is very difficult. We’ve all been through it. I can’t say I’m not relieved to be passing on the torch. Nevertheless, I believe that each of you can and will succeed!
