5 ways to kickstart the school year for high school students!  

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The start of a new school year can be both exciting and nerve-wracking for high school students. It’s a fresh beginning with new classes, teachers, and opportunities. To make the most of the academic year, there are essential things every high school student should know from the get-go. In this blog, we’ll discuss five crucial pieces of advice to help high school students kick off the school year successfully. 

Set Clear Goals 

One of the most important things high school students need to do at the beginning of the school year is to set clear and achievable goals. These goals can be academic, extracurricular, or personal. Having a sense of purpose and direction will keep you motivated throughout the year. 

Start by identifying your academic goals. What grades do you want to achieve in each subject? Are there any specific classes you want to excel in? Write down these goals and break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help you stay focused and on track. 

Beyond academics, consider your extracurricular interests. Whether it’s joining a club, participating in sports, or pursuing a hobby, setting goals for your extracurricular activities can lead to personal growth and a well-rounded high school experience. 

Develop Good Study Habits 

Effective study habits are the foundation of academic success. High school can be academically challenging, and developing good study habits early on will make a significant difference. Create a clean, quiet space to study without distractions. Take regular breaks to rest your mind and organize your study materials so that you have a clear direction and can keep tabs on assignment deadlines, things to do and so on. Lastly, seek help when needed. Don’t hesitate to ask teachers/peers for assistance if you’re struggling with a subject. 

Manage Your Time Wisely 

Time management is a valuable skill that will serve you well throughout your life. High school students often juggle multiple responsibilities, from classes, to extracurricular activities. Learning to manage your time effectively is essential for maintaining a healthy student-life balance. 

Start by creating a weekly schedule that includes all your commitments, including classes, study sessions, and extracurricular activities. Prioritize tasks and allocate time to each, based on their importance and deadlines. Avoid procrastination by breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and tackle them one step at a time. Most importantly, set aside some time for yourself and for the things you love to do.  

Build Healthy Relationships

High school is not just about academics; it’s also a time for personal growth and building relationships. Be open to making new friends and interacting with students from different cultural backgrounds. The real learning happens outside the classroom and will help you to get a broader view on life. It is important to surround yourself with positive influence. Make sure to choose friends who support your goals & values and avoid negative influences that may hinder your progress. 

Practice Self-Care (mental, emotional and physical wellbeing) 

Last but not the least, high school students should prioritize self-care. The demands of school and other commitments can be overwhelming, so it’s crucial to take care of your physical and mental well-being. Get at least 8-9 hours of sleep, ensure you are eating well and have a balanced diet and stay hydrated. Incorporate physical activity to boost your mood and reduce stress. Along with all this, ensure that you practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga to keep your mind and emotions balanced. Students can also check the BC Government website for resources on mental health at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/erase/mental-health.

Starting a new school year can be a bag full of mixed emotions which can be dealt with by incorporating good habits and making healthy life choices. This can serve as a good reminder for students to make the most of their high school experience!  

We hope all students will have a fruitful academic year!!  

 Onwards and upwards?  

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