What I Wish I Knew Before Starting a New School Year
Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash
We are just around the corner from the start of a new school year! That means it's time for new goals, routines, friends, and experiences! Starting new schools or a new year can bring all the emotions, and it's totally okay to feel a little freaked out!
I remember my first time walking into my new school, and all the nerves and excitement that seemed to weigh on me. I didn’t know if I’d find my people, if I’d get lost trying to find my classes, or if I’d feel like I belonged. Looking back, I wish someone had told me that everyone feels that way at first and that it’s okay not to have everything figured out.
Any time we start something new and out of our comfort zones, it can feel overwhelming. For me, that tends to make me want to isolate myself. However, that can often make the overwhelming feelings worse. Instead of isolation, I should try to just be open to the new things around me. All the new routines, new people, and even the awkward moments that may come. That mindset shift would’ve helped me feel more excited than anxious. Looking at the upcoming weeks as a gateway to a whole new year with whole new opportunities creates excitement, motivation, and a drive that is awesome to be equipped with for what is ahead!
What I Wish I Could Tell Myself (and what I want to tell you!)
1. Being Present
As someone who is going into their last year of high school, I can say with my full heart that one of the most important things to do when starting a new school year is to breathe deep and take it all in. Being present in the early days, before all the stress and deadlines come in, is one of the best ways to adjust to the school environment. Carefully taking your time to introduce yourself to new people, observing the culture of the school, and fully participating whenever opportunities present themselves. Immersing yourself in the school community is a wonderful way to make the transition easier.
2. The Importance of Routine
Routines can supply us with comfort in an otherwise uncomfortable or uncertain time. They provide structure to our day, can reduce anxiety, and will also ensure the best possible start to the new academic year! Once you have access to your class schedule and any after-school activities that you may have, setting aside time for schoolwork, physical activity, social connection, and rest will allow you to make the most of your time.
3. Setting Goals
Research shows that 70% of goals are more likely to be accomplished if they are clearly outlined and put in an accessible place (Reid, personal communication, Nov 2024). This means that the first step is to reflect on what you hope for in the new school year. Maybe it could be friendships, grades, clubs, or something else. Then, writing it down and putting it in a place you see everyday will help remind you of your goals and give you motivation to complete them. For me, my goals are written on a sticky note that I keep on my bathroom mirror. Every morning while I am brushing my teeth, I look at my goals and think about the actions I can take to bring myself closer to completing them.
I think out of every piece of advice I have, the one I feel is most important is to lead with integrity. This means to align your actions with your mindset and values. Leading with integrity means being yourself and acting in ways that show everyone else around you who you are. The best way to find community in new spaces is to fully allow them to learn who you truly are!
It is so important to remember that starting something new can be scary, exciting, overwhelming, and everything in between. But remember, you’re not alone in how you feel, and you don’t have to have it all figured out on day one. Be present, stay open, build routines that support you, set goals that motivate you, and most importantly, show everyone who you truly are! This year has so much potential, and so do you. You've got this!!
Sarah Brown
JOMO Student Intern
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