Dear high school freshman,

Welcome to the whole new world of high school, it is an exciting time full of transitions. I can remember my first day of high school like it was yesterday. I was so nervous that I woke up at 5 a.m. to get ready to ensure that I would look perfect for my first day. I was so worried that I was going to get lost or look to much like a “freshman.” I am here to tell you that high school really is not scary at all. Here is my advice for all incoming freshman.

Don't be scared to get involved.

I went into freshman year thinking that I would not do anything until I was an upperclassmen. I am so glad I did not listen to myself and got involved right away. Whether you are a stud athlete, an inspiring oscar winner, or the next Beethoven there is something for everyone in high school so get out and get involved. Plus colleges like to see well rounded students who got involved throughout high school.

Your GPA starts automatically.

My grades my freshman year were not bad at all but they defiantly could have been better. It is hard to realize as a freshman that these grades really matter. Also your classes freshman year will probably be some of your easier classes in high school, make sure you give full effort even if it seems pointless.

Your friend group will change.

The best friends you had in middle school or even freshman year may not be your best friends all four years. This is totally okay and a lot of times it is better this way. You will change a lot in high school and so will your friends. I am lucky that I was best friends with two girls all four years of high school and a lot of other people for many of my high school years as well.

Your teachers want you to succeed.

I do not know one teacher that wants there students to fail. The number one piece of advice I can give you is if you are having trouble in class ask your teacher for help. They love when students come and ask for help.

Enjoy this time.

I truly had an amazing high school experience, I would even say it was the best four years of my life! Over the next four years, you will grow so much and become a whole new person. Enjoy all the new friends and all the amazing memories you will make over the next four years! In a blink of a eye, you will be a graduated senior heading off to college looking back thinking where did the time go? Make sure to soak up every moment because you can't get it back.

High school may seem like this big scary beast but it really can be amazing. To ensure it is an awesome experience just remember these few things. Your grades matter, when it comes to apply for college you are going to wish you tried a little hardier to get that A instead of a B.