Secrets for Student Survival

Transitioning from the oldest class in middle school to the youngest class in high school is a big change. Learning where the bathrooms are and navigating the two lunch rooms can be nerve-racking. Quickly adjusting to high-school level classes and learning study tricks is important. Luckily, there are other students who have been in your shoes. Here are tips on how to succeed as a freshman at Caledonia:

1. Locate your classes before the first day of school. Not knowing where to go is a terrible feeling, but the good news is you can avoid this feeling by being prepared. Find your classes by using the school maps on the Caledonia website. If needed, print out the map and keep it with you during your first couple of days. It’s also helpful to change your phone’s lock screen to your schedule.
2. Memorize who your teachers are. Having a positive relationship with your teachers can deeply enhance your experience. Say hello to them in the hallways, reach out if you have questions, and don’t be the student who gives them a hard time. They’re just trying to do their job. Make it as easy on them as possible.
3. Keep up with the flow of traffic in the hallways. The halls at Caledonia are crowded. Navigating through groups of students can be challenging, especially when you’re on a fixed schedule. NEVER stop in the middle of the halls during passing time. Every student has somewhere to be, so don’t be an obstacle. Social awareness is important and appreciated.
4. Try to make at least one friend on the first day. Introduce yourself to the person sitting next to you in English or invite your Geometry partner to join you at lunch. It doesn’t matter who the person is. Freshman year is the perfect opportunity to make new friends because everyone is new to the high school.
5. Do your homework. Despite popular belief, having missing assignments and failing classes doesn’t make you cooler. Developing a strong work ethic during freshman year is one of the most important skills to possess. It will come in handy in high school, college, and the rest of your life.
6. Don’t become romantically involved with someone right away. Just don’t do it. Yes, this is a personal choice, but try to create new friendships rather than rushing into a relationship. It’s also a smart idea to not date a junior or senior as a freshman. Get to know your peers instead!
7. Join a sport or club. You’ll never regret being involved in the Caledonia community. Participating in sports and/or clubs are a fantastic way to meet new people and expand your horizons. Extracurricular activities also look great on college applications. Click here to look through the clubs offered.
8. Keep the school tidy. You are lucky to have two beautiful buildings to learn in. Do your part by throwing away trash after eating, flushing the toilets in the bathrooms, and thanking the janitors and other under-appreciated staff members whenever you see them.
9. Go to sports games and dances. Homecoming, Winterfest, football games, and basketball games are always a fun time. Similar to participating in extracurricular activities, attending school events are another way to meet new people and create notable memories.
10. Have fun. High school is a one-in-a-lifetime experience. Be yourself and enjoy.