Don't Be Nervous by Jonathan

Don't Be Nervous by Jonathan - November 2014 Scholarship Essay

Don’t be nervous! Just because you’re new to the big world of high school doesn't mean it is going to be drastically different from middle school. You’ll find any anxiety easier to manage by breaking everything down into several simple aspects, instead of looking at this as one all-encompassing experience. Consider one thing at a time: yes, it’s a new building, but everyone goes somewhere new from time to time; of course, there will be new people, but we meet new people everywhere; and there certainly will be new opportunities, but those can lead to exciting unforeseen ventures. Think of going into high school as a transition from one juncture in your life to another. Like a train, continuing forward on its journey, there are times along the way that it will need to switch tracks in order to reach its final destination.

Without a doubt, every new freshman going into high school will feel some trepidation, as uncertainty always accompanies change. Keep in mind, however, there are great opportunities that await, as long as you take the steps to capitalize on them. To help alleviate some of the initial nervousness, seek out friends you know or strike up a conversation with someone you’re sitting near in your classes. Remember, you’re not going through this experience alone. Others will be feeling the same uncertainty of the expectations that lie ahead.

Finding commonalities between what you've left behind in middle school and what you are currently experiencing in high school will also help calm the nerves. Similarities can be found if you just take the time to look for them. Many of the kids you will see are the same ones you have been in middle school with. The rules of the school don't change much from place to place and the teachers are still there to help you should any problems arise. Familiar concepts and similarities like these will assist in making the change to high school seem less overwhelming.

Not being nervous is the most important thing to remember. If you stay positive and enthusiastic, looking forward to the adventure and new experiences being a freshman brings, you will do just fine and will acclimate to this time-honored tradition sooner than you might think. Relax, take a deep breath, and prepare for the beginning of a new and immensely exciting chapter in your life.