Dear Dish-It: Starting High School

Dear Dish-It,

I’m about to go to high school and I don't really know what it’s like. Could you tell me how it’s different than primary school?

Question Girl

Starting High School

Dear QG,

Lots of kids going into high school for the first time (called freshmen) wonder what it’s like. Is there more homework? More stress? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Here are some tips to help you get a feel for what your time in high school could be like.

New School

Many of the nervous feelings associated with starting high school have to do with the fact that you’re like going to be going to a brand-new school in September! Whether lots of the kids you went to primary or middle school are going to be there as well or not, it can be intimidating thinking of all those new faces you’re going to see on your first day there (especially in the upper grades)! Luckily, many high schools offer an orientation for freshmen in the late summer, before school starts, where you can tour the school, find your locker and classrooms and get to know some of your new classmates ahead of time.

Heaps of Homework?

If you’re worried that high school is gonna be too hard for you or too stressful, just think: you’ve spent a good chunk of your life building up to this challenge, and I know you can handle it! Plus, if you ever need any help with any of your classes or projects, most high schools offer plenty of homework and study clubs that can help you get a handle on your studies.

Not only that, there’s plenty more to do at high school besides just homework! You can give yourself a well-deserved break from studying by joining after-school clubs or sports teams, playing an instrument in the school band or trying out for the school play! These are all great ways to meet new people and make new friends, too!

HAVE YOUR SAY: Got any good advice for Question Girl? Leave your comment below!