23 Lessons To Maximize Your High School Experience:
As a college counselor, I have watched thousands of students move through high school and not always invested in their experience. I can also say, in hindsight, I wished I had followed this advice during my time in high school. Here are twenty-three tips to help you maximize this time in your life:
Don't be afraid to ask questions in class. Clarifying your doubts is more important than worrying about what others might think of you.
Develop good study habits that work for you. Cramming is never a good idea. Start studying weeks and days in advance of a test. Make a plan for the month ahead and stick to it.
Balance school work with socializing. Don't let school work consume all of your free time. Find a balance between your studies and social life.
Get involved in extracurricular activities. There are so many clubs and activities available that it's a shame not to participate. Extracurricular activities are a great way to make new friends.
Learn to put your phone away and be present. This will make an enormous difference in your social interactions and build deeper connections with your friends, family, and teachers.
Get enough sleep. You cannot function well in school without sleep, especially on a test or during a presentation.
Don't compare your grades to others. Remember that everyone is different, and what someone else earned on an assignment does not reflect on you as a student so swim in your own lane.
Start college work early. Procrastination is dangerous, especially when it comes to preparing for college applications. Use your summer before senior year wisely.
Don't let others' opinions influence your decisions. Take your friends' opinions into consideration, but remember that no one knows you better than you do.
Don't be too hard on yourself. If you get a bad grade, learn from it and make adjustments for the next assessment.
Meet with your teachers. They are always willing to help, so don't be afraid to schedule a time to talk about a subject or concept that is difficult.
Do your assigned readings. Summaries and cliffs notes can only get you so far; you will never be more prepared for class than if you actually read the material.
Find healthy ways to manage stress. High school can be overwhelming, so find a mental health routine that includes physical movement, connecting with friends, and hobbies to channel your emotions in a healthy way.
Get to know your classmates. Making an effort to know as many people in your grade will make you feel more connected with your community and classmates.
Attend sports games. It's an easy way to demonstrate school spirit and support your classmates.
Don't jump to conclusions. Gather all relevant information before building your perspective about a situation.
Be nice. Kindness goes a long way.
Learn to accept responsibility. It's hard to admit when you're wrong, but taking responsibility is an important lesson in learning how to be reflective, accepting one’s behavior, and learning to move on.
Embrace change. You will change and that's okay. It is completely normal, and will feel uncomfortable, but you have terrific support systems and it will be OK.
Be reliable. Be an active and dependable member of a group project, friendship circle, your family, and any community that you occupy. You showing up on time and prepared is important.
Don't dwell on mistakes. Learn from them and move on. We all make them and learning from them is the most important part.
Enjoy high school. It goes by fast, so spend time with your friends and family, and take this time to simply be a high schooler. Enjoy every moment.
And Finally…
Learn to trust your gut. Your brain and gut are connected in a bidirectional communication axis linking the emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with your peripheral intestinal functions. In short, if something doesn’t “feel right” your tummy will alert you, listen to your body’s warning system and make good decisions.
Making the most of your high school years is not only about succeeding academically but also about personal growth and preparing for your future. Understanding what to do in high school to prepare for college is a crucial part of this journey.
Embrace every opportunity to learn, ask questions, and explore your interests. Make the effort to develop good habits, balance academics with social activities, and establish healthy stress management strategies.
Remember, these high school tips aren't just about getting ready for the next step - they're about enjoying the journey and growing into the person you're meant to be. So, be proactive, be open, and be prepared to make the most of your high school experience.
