Freshman Survival Guide
Audrey parman | sept. 24, 2024 | The fall Supplemental
Walking into the halls of high school and leaving behind middle school, students each year are faced with a major transition. However, this change of pace does not have to be overly intimidating. Receiving guidance on life at Stanton College Preparatory School and activities can allow the year to go as smoothly as possible.
Freshman year provides exposure to new experiences. While many students are entering these doors for the first time, upperclassmen students and alumni know what the class of 2028 can expect and have their own tips and tricks to success at Stanton.
Some might be wondering about the workload they will face in high school. Rumors of extensive homework have been known to circulate among freshmen before they even enter the school. Although, many come to learn that much of these rumors are a product of exaggeration.
“I wish I knew that it would be a lot easier than I was expecting, I was stressing out over nothing,” said junior Owen Bayley.
While some report a less demanding coursework than anticipated, this does not mean Stanton is entirely free of stress. Common stressors for students are Advanced Placement classes and exams. This new territory leaves many with anxiety over what to expect. For most freshmen, their first AP class will be AP World History.
“At first, freshman year AP World History may seem like a lot and difficult,” said Mr. Charles Renz, Stanton AP World History teacher. “However, if you talk to both the upperclassmen and the teachers who teach AP World History, they will tell you that [it] is manageable.”
Students themselves come up with their own strategies to effectively manage their time in studying for both AP exams and any other tests they have. Freshmen can implement strategies to help avoid issues with cramming, with many upperclassmen giving their advice to help successfully study.
“I watched all of Steve Heimler’s videos,” said sophomore Angel Fernandez. “And I took videos of myself reteaching subjects and would go over my notes using the recordings.”
Videos of all kinds are valuable resources when it comes to studying for anything. Teachers will often encourage students to take advantage of educational sites such as AP Classroom or Khan Academy to help understand lessons one might be struggling with. Additionally, teachers recommend YouTube channels and videos for additional reviewing, including popular YouTube history reviewer Heimler. Making your own videos, like Fernandez, might work for some people too. It is advised that students experiment with different strategies to help for effective studying.
If academics still prove to be a challenge despite these measures, help can be found from Stanton faculty. There are numerous dedicated teachers and staff members, helpful upperclassmen, and four counselors on campus to guide students.
“My guidance counselors were so helpful,” said sophomore Amelia Peterson. “If I could give any advice, it would probably just be to see them as soon as possible, especially if you’re dealing with stress and anxiety about school.”
Another resource counselors offer all students that many do not take advantage of as early as possible is planning for their future. It is important to meet with your guidance counselor to help build a strong relationship one can fall back on during the next four years of high school. Stanton counselors can also help find opportunities relevant to future goals and current interests, including volunteer opportunities and internships.
One way to get involved in addition to volunteering is through extracurricular activities. Extracurriculars play a major role in students' time in high school, with clubs and sports showcasing the multifaceted interests of Stanton students. Students participate in them for a variety of reasons, including improving college applications, making new friends, and just having fun. It is encouraged to try out any that spur interest for the benefits they can provide.
“[Stanton athletics] have connected me socially to the school,” said junior volleyball captain Sophia Kostin. “I have more friends and I’m friends with upperclassmen who help me with my future and college decisions.”
In addition to working within a sports team at Stanton, many students decide to also participate in the various clubs Stanton offers. From the Culinary Arts Club to Medical Society, students can find many interests represented within the school’s walls.
“I think clubs at Stanton really make us family. I think what our clubs do is make it important and cater to everyone’s interest and needs, so it really adds beauty to Stanton,” said sophomore class president Lyric Cromity. `
Many feel similarly to Cromity, having found friends in their respective clubs. Some are also aware of additional significance their club holds.
“The community was really close and I made a bunch of friends doing [Multicultural Club],” said sophomore Multicultural Club member Neha Ananth. “It’s definitely [a good way of] showing the cultures in our school.”
Specific clubs, such as Multicultural Club, are highlighted to display their creativity during school-wide events such as pep rallies, Winterfest, and Multi’s own annual performance.
“Events such as the pep rally help give students a method of relaxation and a chance to decompress from what’s going on,” said Stanton Student Activities Director Ms. Tangela Ennis, who works to organize these programs.
These shows provide exciting opportunities to unwind that students can take advantage of to showcase school spirit, so participation is always encouraged. Many students find them to be a positive experience as well. These events can serve as a way to bond with classmates through the excitement and fun.
“[They] bring out the joy in people and encourage us to let loose once in a while,” said sophomore Samaikyah Karanam.
In addition to having fun at these events, many suggest students attend games and meets that Blue Devils compete in. Participation is also a way to support Stanton athletics and another method of displaying school spirit.
“Even if we’re losing, just going to the [football] games and hanging out with people and tailgating before is fun,” said senior Colin Beard.
When faced with all of these new events, activities, and opportunities, the experience may seem daunting. However, students have resources and guidance all around them. Taking time to consider advice from others may help new students be equipped for their high school journey if they can find out what works for them.