Freshmen. The group that enters high school every year with the biggest class numbers. Coming in from different middle schools with a past that could only be described as “different”. But how does this big change affect them? How do they feel during this time period? What could be good things that they are experiencing?
A lot of freshmen often feel nervous about entering high school because of the vast change. It could cause a lot of anxiety in them. Between the people, teachers, and learning new classroom routes, it’s understandable why they might feel the way that they do. It is a lot of pressure to have a brand new fresh start. Especially if they are coming from a different school or country. But some seem to be combating this change very well. “The school is a lot bigger than my previous school, but finding classes aren’t too hard.” -Sam B, a current freshman.
From an excerpt from “Remember what it was like to be a freshman in high school?” They state “When students feel that they belong at school, they are more likely to engage and participate and thrive academically and socially,” “This sense of belonging fosters a supportive environment where students feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and embrace new learning experiences. Students who feel they belong at school are less likely to be absent, as school becomes a place of support rather than a source of stress.” This displays a deeper look at what the actual problem is, they don’t feel comfortable!
What a lot of teachers feel is a way for these lower class-men to feel more comfortable with their new surroundings is joining new sports and clubs. “I joined swim. I only do swim for summer but I thought I would try it out. I made varsity.” -Brennan G (9). This shows a way that this student wanted to make himself more familiar with his new school and peers. “When I play a sport, it makes me feel good about myself and helps relieve stress that I have. When I feel good about myself, it keeps me motivated to keep working hard at school, and then I get more done in school as well as do better in my classes. When I ‘m not stressed I can do everything better than if I am stressed out.” Playing sports could relieve any outlying tension they may have from the new kid jitters.
“Its a great fresh start with new people, classes, and experiences. This year so far has let me express myself and my ability better than before.” -Layla M (9). These freshmen allowing themselves to be more free in a new area will prove beneficial. They will not be shy and scared for the next few years that they are in high school and will learn how to do new things and tackle new ideas.
In conclusion, the transition may be hard. But finding ways to make it better will always be the solution.
