Grade Nine? Don’t Skip This Headline!
If you were to question a senior student or graduate on their freshman year, you would most likely be met with several clashing reactions. Many of those queried would burst into a grin, recalling ten blissful months free of AP exams and university prep – others would cringe. Either way, most individuals would agree on at least one matter: the first year of high school is an odd one! Between learning to juggle numerous teac
hers and courses, and deciphering your role in the community, grade nine is no easy feat. However, as anyone can attest to, “weird” is not necessarily a bad thing! Whether you’re breezing through your first few months at Bishop Allen, or truly learning the meaning of what it is to be up the proverbial creek without a paddle, everyone can benefit from a little advice. Take a peek at the astute tips of BA’s upperclassmen:
· Get involved! You will make some great friends at clubs and sports teams and the experience will be totally worth it, plus it’s tons of fun, so why not?
· The grade nines should be confident in their strengths and work on improving their weaknesses throughout the next four years. They should use their strengths to enhance their own and the learning experience of their peers. They are encouraged to apply their strengths in various clubs and teams as well. They should advocate for themselves in order to work on improving their weaknesses.
· If you want to join a club or team, just go for it - don’t be afraid to be “the new one”. Being part of a club or team can lead to meeting a lot of great people and you could make some new friends, as well as feel a sense of belonging.
· My advice to grade nines is that although academics may not seem like they count toward anything, it is necessary to establish good work habits for the next few years, when marks and academics are extremely important.
To all grade nines:
My best piece of advice to survive high school is to NEVER put popularity over…well, anything. School matters more, friendships matter more, teams matter more…don’t hold back from an assignment or talking to a new person or trying out for a team because you are intimidated or think you’re “not cool enough”. If you can reach the level of comfort with everything where you just do things because you GENUINELY WANT TO, then I think you’re the coolest person in school. Don’t be shy to try new things and talk to people you normally wouldn’t talk to…and enjoy your first year at Bishop Allen!
Ultimately, if you ever have any questions or concerns at all, take the initiative to talk it out with an older student, teacher or administrative staff member. You may be surprised by how eager others are to share their experiences – ask and you shall receive!