To those entering high school

You made it past 8th grade! Don’t let that seem insignificant to you, feel some pride in the fact that you’re growing. Now more than ever I think you could use some confidence, seeing as you’re heading into high school during such a strange time. To help you with that, I’m going to give you some advice. Whether you take it or not is up to you, but I can guarantee that this will help you (and it’s easier to learn through someone else’s mistakes than through your own right?) When you first start, it might seem like a lot. The classes, the teachers, the new people, and maybe most of all, the fact that you can now join a number of clubs and sports (I’m assuming that your middle school was like mine, and had either no or a very limited amount of sports or clubs). When it comes to those last two, I feel like I have some experience to share, as I was on the track team for a fair portion of my own high school years. First of all, don’t feel like this is a contract between you and the sport, and that now you owe it everything. If you feel like you can do great in it, then sure devote yourself to it entirely. If you feel like you want to join it more for the experience though, I don’t think that’s something to feel shame about. Always do your best and always keep yourself satisfied with what you’re doing. When it comes to clubs, those are a bit easier to deal with. All you have to do is find a club you think resonates with you, ask a teacher about it, and go see if it's right for you. No need to feel awkward, no need to feel shy, just go out there and be yourself. In essence, just remember to enjoy high school. I know that it’s stressful, and I know that everyday won’t be good, but you don’t want to regret your high school experience. Stay safe, have fun, and take care of yourself.