High School is the time for new beginnings. New school. New teachers. New friends. Whether you are an upcoming freshman in high school or know someone who is, these five tips will make the transition from middle school to high school a breeze.

1. Explore your interests

This is the perfect time to explore your interests. Now, it may be difficult to figure out exactly what you like to do. If you are having difficulty in distinguishing your true interests from what you like in the moment, think back to what you liked to do in your early childhood. Were you avant garde child or were you more into athletics? Your favorite past-times might just uncover your hidden passions.

2. Get involved early

Your involvement will make your high school experience. It is easy to feel out of place in school, but many schools offer several clubs and organizations to get involved with. If you cannot find the space for you, create it. You never know who is waiting for the opportunity to connect with students like yourself. 

3. Learn to study

Studying is a skill. Often times students misconstrue studying due to its prevalence in education. Studying should not be a daunting task if done correctly. It's a tool used to refine your understanding. Like any tool, you must learn how to use it before you apply it. So, freshman year is the best time to try different studying techniques. Note, there is not solely one correct way to study. Test out which techniques work best with your most difficult subjects. 

4. Find a peer mentor

A mentor is a trusted and experienced person who advises others. A peer mentor is someone who you are relativity close with in age that you trust with personal struggles and aspirations. A peer mentor will serve as your guide through high school. This does not mean rely on this person to show you the way, but only to help you stay on track to achieving goals. Good peer mentor options could be older siblings, family members, and trusted upperclassmen.

5. Set weekly goals

Goals are the little keys to our success. Setting weekly goals is a great way to keep your goals in sight. While we all have big dreams, it is easy to lose sight of our goals. That's why setting weekly goals is the perfect way to keep your eye on the prize. Set both short and long-term goals to make your goals more realistic and easily achievable. 

This short list is not only beneficial to freshman, but to any student whether in middle school, high school, or college. Share this tip list with any student to help them prepare for their best academic year yet!