High School has been a mix of challenges and fun. Here is a list of the things I have learned that I think will help others.

1. Talk to people in your classes. Try to have 1 or 2 people in each of your classes that you can talk to and work with on assignments. I know this isn’t easy, but it makes all the difference especially in your tougher classes if you can collaborate with other students.
2. Join at least one club. When I was a freshman I thought it was crazy that so many people were in a few to several different clubs, but I learned that clubs tend to have different regular meeting days, and it is absolutely doable to be in more than 1 or 2 clubs. Clubs are a great way to meet new people, and you can join a club even if none of your friends are.
3. It’s okay to not have a job right away. And it’s also okay to only work around 10 hours a week. Referring back to number 2, while I recommend joining a couple of clubs, balance is important. If you can only handle a club or two and a job, that’s okay. Don’t feel like you have to be busy all of the time and do it all.
4. Do your best to manage your time and not procrastinate. I have spent the majority of my time in high school procrastinating everything and anything homework related and it has only made my life more stressful. Set a timer for a specific amount of work time, and then take a break. Find what works for you so you can be productive and responsible.
5. When you are confused or need clarification, talk to your teachers. Your understanding of concepts and assignments affects how well you do them. If you are struggling with a specific topic or class, talk to your teacher; you may be able to receive tutoring. Utilize other in-school help like Math Lab. Don’t just go to Math Lab to make up tests or do corrections; go there to get help with your math homework if you need it.
6. If you want guidance in choosing classes or learning about a career field that interests you talk to your guidance counselor. With your future in mind try to pick elective classes based on any career fields that interest you. 
7. Most importantly, have fun and do your best. Grades are important, but they are not everything. Your experience in high school matters too. You are amazing no matter what grades you get.

If you are currently a junior or will be next year and would like to share some of your own advice, consider joining Link Crew. Link Crew Leaders help the freshmen adjust to life in high school through activities and sharing advice. By joining not only can you share your own experiences and advice you could also learn something from other members of the club.