STARTING HIGH SCHOOL - A Roadmap to Academic success and what you need to know to prepare for your future

The transition from middle school to high school can be a daunting task for many students. As you begin your high school career, one of the first things you’ll notice is how vastly different high school is from the middle school. In high school you will, for sure, enjoy a lot more freedom and you will have more choices than in the middle school but amidst this newly found independence, comes tremendous responsibility. Unlike the middle school, the next four years of your life will be filled with many critical decisions you will need to make and each of these decisions could have a lasting impact on your life, and could dictate the kind of future you’ll have well beyond graduation. In an ever changing world and a globally competitive economy, having a solid high school education has never been more important. You have the power to be the author and orchestrator of your future but it is incumbent upon you to make your high school years a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Lamentably, every year many seniors reflect back on their high school years filled with many regrets. Trust me, getting rejection letters from colleges or being denied an opportunity for that “ideal job” due to poor grades and/or discipline problems is a horrendous experience that can haunt you for a long time to come. You do not have to be one of these students. High school is about making sound decisions. It is about preparing you for the future and the better you do, the more options you’ll have, and ample opportunities will, for sure, be awaiting you. What, then, do you need to know about high school and what can you do in order to reach your full potentials? The following are some key factors that not only will help you to become successful in high school but will also propel you for unlimited success later in life:[/size]

[b]Course selection and grade point average-[/b]Ofparamount importance is the types of courses youchoose to take in high school. Challenge yourself academically and never “water down” your schedule. For students that are academically inclined, take honors and AP (Advanced Placement) courses. Colleges look at a whole host of things in considering you for admission but the top factor is you GPA (grade point average) and the types of courses you took. Your GPA is the cumulative academic average of all your classes taken throughout high school. Your counselor will provide you with your GPA starting in your sophomore or junior year. If not, be sure to ask for it. Remember, the better the grades, the higher your GPA will be.

[b]Extra-Curricular Activities[/b]-To what extent did you take advantage of what your high school had to offer? This is probably the most important question the colleges will ask in determining whether you’re accepted or not. Colleges are familiar with the profile of your high school and they are looking for students that are well-rounded. As a high school student, one of your foremost responsibilities is to explore your interests and discover who you truly are. Joining clubs and/or participating in sports will help you with this process and will help you discover your passion, likes and dislikes. It is also a great way to make friends and learn about other people. Keep in mind that being involved in after school activities is a great way to boost your college application.

[b]Homework[/b]-While I do not know of too many students who enjoy doing their homework, it is, to say the least, a “necessary evil” in helping you to reinforce the skills you learn in the classroom daily, and a way to help you prepare for tests and quizzes. Not to mention, homework is also a big chunk of your grade. Give yourself ample time to complete your homework and other assignments. To avoid distractions, find a quite area at home where you can concentrate while doing your homework and go to your local library as often as possible.

[b]Study Skills and Time Management[/b]-Wouldn’t it be great if every high school offered a course on developing good study and organizational skills? There is no doubt that there is a direct correlation between study/organizational skills and grades. You probably know students that are heavily involved in activities, have a job, play sports, and yet manage to get top grades and have a happy, social life. Well, you can bet that these students have good study skills and manage their time wisely and effectively. You do not necessarily need to “study harder” if you’re able to “study smarter”. That old adage “it’s not the quantity but the quality” is certainly applicable here. To learn these skills, take good notes in class and use your daily planner, do not be afraid to ask questions when confused, work with your teachers closely, and stay after school for some one-on-one help. “Hang out” with other students who are involved and successful, and who are good role models that can be a good influence on you. Remember, success breathes success.

[b]Attendance-[/b]Poor attendance can undoubtedly lead to poor grades.Strive to be in school everyday unless it is absolutely necessary that you be absent and try and get to all your classes on time. As a high school student, being disciplined and adjusting to new rules is undoubtedly, crucially important.

[b]Teacher/student relationship-[/b]Show utmost respect for your teachers and do your best to establish a good rapport with them. Remember, you teachers are not only there to teach you, they are also going to push and challenge you as well. They will, at times, be very strict about class rules, deadlines, etc. Do not take it personally, as your teachers have your best interest at heart and want to see you grow and succeed.

[b]PSAT/SAT-[/b]Try and take the PSAT during your sophomore year and definitely take it during your junior year. The PSAT is a practice test for the SAT. Statistics show that students who take the PSAT score higher on the SAT then students who opt not to take the exam. The PSAT is your “gateway” to college because upon taking the exam, colleges then track your name and you become part of their database. They will then begin to send you literature about their school such as brochures, catalogs, and scholarships opportunities. Also, students who score high on the PSAT will have the opportunity to enter scholarship competitions through the College Board and NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test). Also, take the SAT at least twice-once in the spring of your junior year, and once in the fall of your senior year. A vast majority of four year colleges/universities require the SAT for admission.

[b]Peer Pressure-[/b]Students who make destructive decisions may try and influence you to do the same. Becoming more independent also means learning not to always follow the crowd. Learn to walk away from situations that can get you in trouble and try and find friends who share your values which will lead to healthy relationships. Stay healthy, and don’t let alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs ruin your life. Exercise regularly, establish healthy eating habits, and get plenty of sleep. Don’t let peer pressure affect your life. Remember, you can always speak with an adult if you are feeling pressured and stressed, isolated and/or unhappy. All schools can also make outside referrals on your behalf if needed and can provide you and your family with a list of area resources (such as counseling agencies) if you feel you need help beyond your high school.

C[b]onflict Resolution[/b]- Learn ways to resolve conflicts with other students in a peaceful manner. Learn to control your ager and never use violence to get your point across. It’s ok to express your feelings but also important is that you become good listener and allow others to express their feelings as well. Many schools offer peer mediation programs that can help students resolve conflicts in an effective,peaceful manner.

[b]Get To Know your Counselor-[/b]Your counselor is one of the most important resources you will have throughout your high school career. Your counselor will be there to guide you through the many challenges you will face such as course selection and college admission process, academic, emotional/social and career counseling, and may other aspects of your education. Do not hesitate to seek your counselor out whenever you have questions and/or concerns.

[b]Conclusion-[/b]During high school you will grow physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially. You are on your way to becoming an adult and that process means being responsible and taking your schoolwork seriously. While becoming a successful high school student ultimately starts with you, it is important to have a strong network of support around you, such as your parents, friends, counselors, and teachers. Be purposeful and determined in all that you do and never give up on your goals. Do not be afraid of change-rather embrace it enthusiastically and use the many resources available to help you adapt to these changes. Remember that in the world we live in, the only constant is “change” itself. There are lots of people who believe in you and can help in your quest to become successful. The important thing is that you also believe in yourself. Do not compare yourself to other students, as you are unique and smart in your own way. Your counselor and teachers are in touch, so you will be in touch. Good luck, and may you become a highly successful high school student.

Alcides Pina School Counselor/Coordinator of Testing, West Bridgewater Middle Senior High School Administrator/Counselor, Wareham evening High School PM2 Program