Starting high school as a freshman can be both exciting and overwhelming. It’s a time of transition, new
experiences, and opportunities for growth. To ensure that your freshman year is a success, it’s important
to try to approach it with the right mindset and strategies. In this blog post, I’ll share ten tips to help you
thrive during your freshman year of high school. This summer, I’ll be guiding students through these
tips and more during our High School Prep 101 Course.

1. Get Organized:
   The key to success in high school is organization. Invest in a college planner like Class 101 or use digital tools to keep track of assignments, deadlines, important dates, volunteer opportunities,
   and extracurricular clubs, sports, or activities. Prioritize tasks and create a study schedule to
   manage your time effectively.
2. Establish Goals:
   Set both short-term and long-term goals for your freshman year, high school career, and college
   aspirations. Whether it’s achieving a certain GPA, joining a club, or making new friends
   freshman year, having clear objectives will give you direction and motivation to succeed.
3. Get Involved:
   High school offers a variety of extracurricular activities, such as sports teams, clubs, and student
   organizations. Explore your interests and passions by joining clubs or teams that align with your
   goals and values. Getting involved will not only enrich your high school experience but also help
   you develop new skills, make friends, and build your college resume.
4. Build Relationships:
   Forge positive relationships with your teachers, classmates, upperclassmen, and guidance
   counselors. Attend office hours, participate in class discussions, and collaborate with peers on
   group projects. Building strong connections within your school community will create a
   supportive network that can help you navigate challenges and succeed academically.
5. Stay Balanced:
   Maintaining a balance between academics, extracurriculars, and personal life is crucial for your
   overall well-being. Make time for hobbies, relaxation, and self-care activities to prevent burnout
   and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
6. Seek Help When Needed:
   Don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re struggling academically or emotionally. Whether it’s
   talking to a teacher, counselor, or trusted adult, seeking support is a sign of strength, not
   weakness. Your school likely offers resources such as tutoring, counseling services, and
   academic support programs to assist you in overcoming challenges.
7. Stay Focused:
   Stay focused on your goals and prioritize your academic responsibilities. Avoid distractions such
   as social media, video games, or excessive screen time that can interfere with your studies.
   Create a conducive study environment free from distractions to maximize your productivity and
   concentration.
8. Embrace Challenges:
   High school is a time of growth and learning, which can involve facing challenges and setbacks.
   Consider signing up for challenging classes as an opportunity to learn and grow. Embrace
   challenges with a positive attitude, resilience, and determination to overcome obstacles and
   achieve success.
9. Develop Study Habits:
   Develop effective study habits early on to excel academically. Your freshman year grades are the
   important base of your overall high school GPA and often the first grades a college admissions
   office will view on your transcript. Experiment with different study techniques such as
   flashcards, summarization, or group study sessions to find what works best for you. Practice
   active learning, review material regularly, and ask questions to deepen your understanding of
   subjects.
10. Enjoy the Journey:
    Above all, remember to enjoy the journey and make the most of your freshman experience.
    High school is a time of exploration, self-discovery, and memorable moments. Cherish the

friendships you make, celebrate your achievements, and embrace the opportunities for growth
and personal development.

Register for our High School Prep 101 Course
The freshman year of high school sets the foundation for future academic and personal success. Don’t
approach it haphazardly. Empower your middle schooler for high school success with our tailored
course that imparts essential life skills and knowledge, from time management to goal-setting. Enroll
now and set the stage for a successful high school experience.

Starting high school doesn’t have to be stressful. Call Class 101 to have an expert on your side before
making the transition to high school.

I hope to see you at our High School Prep 101 courses this summer!
Alyssa Stegemoller