Over the past four years that I’ve spent in the Upper School, I’d say that I’ve learned a thing or two. So, here’s 14 pieces of advice that I would give to the classes of ‘25 and ‘26.
Do’s:
- Learn how to prioritize. There’s lots of distractions and things to do: sports games, parties, social media, etc. So, it’s important you know how to prioritize and set goals and deadlines.
- Get your service hours. In order to graduate you MUST have at least 80 hours. Don’t procrastinate getting all of your hours until senior year because it will be extremely difficult to meet the required amount. Check Helper Helper frequently; there’s always lots of opportunities. For example, the garden is open every Tuesday and Thursday for the entirety of the school year and you can earn up to 1.5 service hours each day that you go.
- Go to tutorial. I know it can seem boring, but tutorial is a very helpful resource. It gives you a chance to work on homework, ask your teachers questions and review tests.
- Get your permit ASAP. Coming from someone who procrastinated getting their permit, get it as soon as possible. It is so much easier to go places when you can drive yourself, especially since you don’t have to work around your parents’ schedule
- Get involved. High school is an opportunity to branch out, try new things and explore your interests. You should join different clubs, go to different sporting events and go to school functions.
- Be Yourself. Sometimes you might feel pressured to compromise aspects of yourself to “fit in.” But, as cliché as it sounds, just be yourself. It never hurts to go against the grain, and you’ll be a lot happier being your genuine self as opposed to a fake persona.
- Be smart about what you post. I know you’ve probably been told this before, but we live in a digital age. Your posts can and will follow you.So, just be smart. You know what’s appropriate and what’s not.
Don’ts:
- Slack on your academics. When you’re an underclassmen, it can seem like your grades don’t matter. But, you should keep in mind that they are accounted for in your cumulative GPA. Also, the information that you learn in lower grade level classes can be important to know in later courses (this is particularly true for STEM classes). However, you shouldn’t let grades determine your self-worth. If you get a few bad grades, it won’t prevent you from going to college. Admissions officers view your application holistically which means they look at GPA, test scores, letters of recommendation, extracurriculars and essays.
- Get involved in petty drama. I know that getting the “tea” can seem important, but most times it’s not. Don’t waste your time and energy gossiping about others or encouraging drama, especially if it doesn’t concern you.
- Spend all your money at the lounge. I know that the snacks at the lounge are tempting, especially on the days when lunch isn’t the best. But it does add up. for the sake of you or your parents’ wallets, please be smart about how much you buy.
- Be afraid to ask your teachers for help. I know that it can be intimidating and sometimes a little humbling. But asking for help will never hurt you. After all, if you didn’t need guidance, then your teachers wouldn’t have a job.
- Do things just for college. Sometimes, it can seem like a smart decision to participate in activities or do things that will “look impressive” to colleges. But it’s not. Colleges want to see who you are. If you’re not truly excited about something that you’re doing and are only doing it as a resume booster, admissions officers will be able to pick up on that. Also, it’s simply a waste of your time and energy.
- Stay in your comfort zone. This point somewhat relates to the “get involved” tip, but high school is meant for you to explore. Use it as an opportunity to try new things.
- Take for granted your time in the Upper School. Four years can seem like a long time, but it goes by quickly. Make the most of your time here: make new friends and memories, and just have fun!
