Dear Incoming Class of 2020,

High school is an unforgettable time in one’s life filled with interesting, exciting, and challenging experiences. It’s a place to discover one’s interests, make new friends, and mature as you get ready to enter adulthood. The memories you make here as well as the friends you acquire along the way will last you a lifetime.

To ensure that your first year in a new school is as comfortable as possible, I’ve asked students from all four grades here at Marymount for their tips and tricks for the incoming Freshman Class of 2020, so without further ado…

From the Freshmen

• Don’t procrastinate.
• Take the time to meet with teachers.
• Use your free period and Period 9 wisely.
• Sign up for clubs to find your interests.
• Don’t be afraid to ask questions in class.
• Good first impressions are KEY.
• Make new friends but keep the old.
• Never pass up an extra-credit opportunity – that unexpectedly failed test could be right around the corner.
• Use online textbooks.

From the Sophomores

• Wear proper uniform,  especially in front of Sra. Valenzuela and Dr. Menard.
• Always be on time to class. It’s not worth it to lose attendance points for being late.
• Always bring your calculator to school and have it fully charged.
• Bring chargers for your computer and phone for emergencies.
• Plan out your spirit week dance early.
• Don’t settle for anything less than a solid “A” in theology.
• Use free periods and Period 9 wisely if you want your life to be 1000x easier.
• Get homework done over the weekend to save time for studying for assessments during the week.

From the Juniors

• Be respectful to your teachers and the upperclassmen.
• Don’t watch too much Netflix.
• Keep in mind: 1^st semester grades usually determine the higher-level classes you are eligible for next year.
• Read the rubrics for the EGS assignments very carefully.
• When in doubt, meet with your teacher or email them with questions.
• Be open minded.
• Smile!
• Never pass up treats from the student store.
• Don’t be shy! Ask older students questions if you need help!
• An 83% is no longer a “bad grade.”
• Have fun. Not everything is a competition.
• You don’t need as many pens/pencils/highlighters as you think you do.

From the Seniors

• Charge your computer.
• Don’t be afraid to ask new friends to hang out.
• Go to football games and dances to meet new people.
• Get hand-me-down uniforms and textbooks.
• Don’t just stick to one friend group.
• Take advantage of opportunities to meet with teachers and find which ones have your free period.
• Do NOT slack off your freshman year (but don’t stress either!)
• Be friendly with everyone. Nobody feels perfectly comfortable their freshman year. Socialize with and compliment everyone.
• Try something new. (Join a new sport or become a part of the play/musical).

Hopefully, these pieces of advice from current Marymount students can help you feel more prepared for your first year of high school and the beginning of the next chapter of your lives. Good luck, and remember, you’ll all be fine.