How to Survive the First and Last Year of High School

Whether you’re a grade 12 gearing up for your final year, or you’re a grade 8 heading to your first day of high school, you know this year is going to be a big one! Here are some tips to help you survive.

Grade 8:
The best piece of advice is to just relax. High school isn’t as scary as it seems; it’s actually (dare I say it?) fun! Remember to put yourself out there and make new friends, because everyone is just as new to this as you are. The big difference is that your teachers won’t be as lenient towards your assignments being handed in late as they were in elementary school. No worries though, as long as you know what’s due and when, you’ll be fi ne. Also, don’t be too concerned about the grade 12s. To be perfectly honest, they have little time for those who are younger than them. Remember that grade 8 is a grade for adventure and discovery. You’re just getting ready to explore and you should make sure to make the most of it.

Grade 12:
Just one more year, that’s all you have left, so make it memorable. Don’t spend it counting down the days until you’re gone for good. With travel plans and attending different post-secondary institutions, chances are you
may not even see some of your friends after graduation. Make sure to spend time with them and build memories that you can cherish. Why not try getting to know someone whom you’ve never bothered to befriend? Academically, try your hardest this year. Focus on studying because grade 12 counts the most! It will only benefi t you later on with your post-secondary education. This year is definitely one of the highlights of high school, so make it a special one that you will remember fondly.