Starting high school can feel like a rollercoaster—exciting, overwhelming, and a little bit scary. But guess what? Everyone feels that way at first. The good news: you will survive, and probably even love it. More freedom, new friends, unforgettable moments—high school has a lot to offer if you ease into it with the right mindset. Here are 12 simple tips to help you not just survive freshman year, but thrive in it.
1. Be Friendly and Say Hi First
Don’t wait for people to talk to you—smile, introduce yourself, and be kind. Being respectful and open helps you build a solid reputation early on. And if you see someone getting picked on, stand up for them. The more good energy you give, the more you’ll get back.
2. Get Organized Early
Use a planner or app to track assignments, tests, and deadlines. Keep folders for each subject and clean out your backpack weekly. Bonus tip: keep extra pens, pencils, and highlighters in one pocket so you’re never unprepared.
3. Don’t Skip Orientation
It might seem boring, but orientation helps you figure out where everything is, what the rules are, and who to talk to for help. If your school skips it, your homeroom teacher is your go-to person—don’t be afraid to ask questions.
4. Build Strong Teacher Relationships
Participate in class, ask questions, and turn in your work on time. Teachers are more likely to support and help students who show real effort. Even if you don’t click with one teacher, stay respectful—they notice more than you think.
5. Make Friends in All Kinds of Circles
Be open to meeting people outside your usual crowd. Say “yes” to conversations, give compliments, and connect over shared interests. A bigger friend circle means more support and more fun.
6. Join a Club or Team
Whether it’s sports, art, music, or drama—there’s something for everyone. Getting involved helps you make friends and feel more connected to school. Don’t act too cool for activities—if it sounds fun, try it.
7. Show Up On Time
Being late can snowball into bigger issues. Know your schedule, plan your route, and move fast between classes. If your locker slows you down, write the combo somewhere safe until it’s second nature.
8. Take Care of Yourself
Get enough sleep, eat good food, and drink water—simple stuff that makes a big difference. Protect your mental health too. Take breaks, do things you love, and talk to someone if you’re feeling down.
9. Don’t Rush into Dating
If you’re ready to date, go for it. If not, don’t stress. Just take things at your own pace and remember that relationships should add to your life—not take over your time, focus, or happiness.
10. Ask for Help—Seriously
No one expects you to know everything. If you're struggling in class, talk to your teacher. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to your parents, counselor, or a trusted adult. People want to help—you just have to ask.
High school is a fresh start, not a finish line. You’ll grow, stumble, and figure things out one day at a time. Stay kind, stay curious, and stay true to yourself—you’ve got this.
