Dear Incoming Freshmen,
If you’re sick of middle school, good news– high school is a whole lot better.
We are so excited to have so many new fish in our sea. The jump from middle to high school has always been an intimidating one. You may be feeling scared, disappointed, or confused. You are not alone.
Hopefully, you will go to homecoming and explore the experiences that come with high school. I am writing to you as someone who has been in your position but has hope and excitement for your future as a Driller.
I remember my first day at BHS in 2020. Everyone was dressed up, nervous, and excited. The class of 2024 was quite a crowd with our baggy 501 jeans, freshly cut hair, and new backpacks while we gathered outside and waited for the doors of our next four years to open.
High school felt like this crazy monster that snuck up on us. The seniors looked so old, so mature and so knowledgeable. It felt like the first day of the rest of our lives. Looking back, freshman year was the first year that I felt like a person– specifically, my own person.
I came into freshman year thinking that I was going to be friends with the same people, have the same hobbies, and only associate with the same kids as I did in middle school. In reality, some of my best friends came from the opposite school. By the end, I met the people who helped make me, well, me. I realized what gave me purpose, what inspired me, what brought me joy, and how to be the most authentic version of myself. One thing we can all agree on is that 2020 had a mind of its own.
As a senior, I can tell you we are just as shocked that high school is ending as you are that it has finally arrived, but there are still so many opportunities. High school is still a place for you to find out who you are, find your people, and your passion.
Before you walk across the stage in a navy blue gown and cap. For now, enjoy chatting with your peers, joining a club, trying a new sport, asking for help where you need it, and approaching this year with an open mind.
I am so hopeful for your high school experience.
Sincerely,
The Class of 2024
P.S… Here are a few tips for navigating your first year at BHS:
- Know where your classes are; use a campus map, or ask for help if needed
- Buy the right school supplies, and bring them with you
- Get enough sleep
- Manage your time wisely
- Figure out a plan for your next four years; counselors can help here
- Don’t compare yourself to others
- Get to know the people in your classes
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions
- Make sure your backpack isn’t too heavy; use your locker
- Take your teacher’s advice; they want the best for you
- Don’t cram for an exam the night before
- Stay organized
- Stay on top of deadlines; they approach quickly when you don’t
- Find some balance between school and home life
- Never change who you are
- Get to know your school counselor
- Bad grades happen; just aim to do better next time
- Your health and hygiene matters; take care of yourself
- Make new friends
- Find leadership opportunities
- Don’t let one bad day get to you; it’s a bad day, not a bad life
- Be kind and use your manners
Good luck Drillers!
