Entering high school is a big step for many freshmen. Many students have looked up to the upperclassmen throughout their entire time in school. Now, they are becoming peers, learning in classes together, and becoming teammates or joining the same club. This can become very overwhelming for students who may not have a big group of friends, those who are new to the school district, or any students with first-day jitters. Lucky for all the newcomers, the upperclassmen have experience with the first day of freshman year and are more than willing to share their wise words of wisdom.

1. It is not worth it to be stressed about getting lost or being late to class. During the first week, many teachers stand in the hallways to help guide new students to their classrooms. They are always eager to help and very excited to meet all the new faces. If you do get lost and arrive to class a little late, teachers are very understanding and will help you make sure you know your way around, not punish you. 
2. Depending on where you went to middle school, the lunch schedule here at the high school may be a bit different from what you are used to. There are two lunch waves, one at the beginning of the third block and one at the end. The location of your third block class determines what time you eat lunch. Don’t worry, if you get hungry at the beginning or end of the day, many teachers will allow you to have a snack to help pick up your energy.
3. The library is a great space with many different resources and activities. The library has more than just books. It is a great space to chill and relax, complete homework, meet with teachers or tutors after school, and even use the film room. There are always students working or just hanging out. The librarians are always willing to help students with navigating the digital and physical library.
4. Some new students might have heard talk about the bomb shelter. Although we don’t use that space for its intended use, the bomb shelter is still an active area within the school. Many sports teams use the weight room in the bomb shelter, and wrestling has its practices downstairs in that space. Some gym classes occasionally venture down there as well!
5. It is always recommended that freshmen get involved with extracurricular activities. The high school offers many different sports teams, with and without player cuts. There is also a wide variety of clubs and groups like Cupcakes and Causes, Key Club, and the Environmental Action Club. All of these groups are very welcoming to new members and they all make sure to have a good time. If you have an idea for your own club, you are able to start your own. All you need to do is find a teacher to sponsor the group, and they will walk you through the rest of the steps.

High school can seem very overwhelming, especially for the new and clueless freshman. Learning a bit about the school beforehand can make the transition seamless. Your time here will fly by so it is very important to make the most of it right from the start. 

Junior Skylar Cimino is a staff writer for the 2025-2026 Colonel News Magazine. She enjoys playing softball, listening to music, and going to the beach.