Focus on the exciting new steps ahead of you: you could meet a lifelong friend or discover a passion that leads to a career you love. High school might feel like a roller coaster sometimes, but there will be plenty of amazing moments and important life lessons.
Say to yourself, “You have nothing to worry about. You’ve had lots of ‘firsts’ before, and you’ve gotten this far. You’ll get used to your new school and these feelings of nervousness will go away. ” Remember, it’s not the end of the world if you get lost or show up to the wrong class. Even if something goes wrong, you’ll eventually just think of it as a funny first day of school story. [4] X Research source
If you’re in touch with friends who were a grade above you in middle school, you could talk to them about your nerves, too.
For instance, if 2 classes are on opposite sides of the grounds, you can plan on bringing your books for both classes with you. Then, you can head back to your locker and swap those books for the materials you’ll need in your next class.
If you have older siblings who go to your new high school, you could ask them for advice, too.
You and your friends from middle school might drift apart, but that’s perfectly normal. People and friendships change over time, so don’t worry if you start to get closer to new friends.
For instance, don’t give up an interest, like a music genre or hobby, because you think it would make other people like you. You don’t need to change the way you talk or make decisions that make you uncomfortable just to look cool.
You could say something like, “Hey, I really like your sweater! Where did you get it?” or “Cool sneakers! I’ve wanted a pair like that for so long!” You could also ask them where they went to middle school or break the ice by saying, “I don’t know about you, but I’ve been pretty anxious about starting high school!”
Don’t hesitate to ask an upperclassman for help finding a classroom, advice about what to get at lunch, or how to make it on time to your next class across the grounds.
Try looking on the school’s website or social media pages for activities that spark your interest before the first day of school. Once school starts, look for flyers and announcements for signups, tryouts, or meet and greets.
If you’re taking the bus, there’s often an orientation where you can meet your driver and find out your stops. See if you have a friend taking the same bus and make a plan to sit together. If you don’t know anyone on the bus, try sparking a conversation with someone new. [13] X Research source
For example, suppose you have back to back classes far away from your locker, then a third class down the hall from it. Bring all of your materials for the first classes, then stop by your locker on the way to the third. If your locker doesn’t have a built-in combination lock, remember to bring a lock with you on the first day of school.
You could ask them questions like where they went to middle school and what activities they want to join. If you’re not sure where your next class is, they might know where they’re going. Even if you both get lost, at least you can laugh about it with each other!
Don’t be afraid to ask teachers and upperclassmen for help. Everyone has had a first day at a new school, even seniors and teachers who’ve been at the school for years.
If you do your homework, pay attention in class, and put an effort into your schoolwork, you’ll have no problem with your teachers.
Don’t freak out if you do run into trouble. Getting used to a high school workload can take time, and there are ways to get help. You can ask your teacher or a parent for help, talk to a guidance counselor, or see if your school has a peer tutoring program.
