Advise for the Fish

I just would like to congratulate all of you who took the initiative to come here as it took much courage to leave your comfort zone and start somewhere new.  Personally, it was the hardest but best decision I've ever made.

Seeing as we're already 3 weeks into the school year, you've probably noticed that there is more expected of each student.  Maybe all the kids already know something that you never even heard of before.  Maybe at your old school you earned A's without doing really anything.  Don't feel bad if this is the case--it's not your fault.  Some school districts maybe didn't cover some of the material, but it is up to YOU to seek help so that you can catch up.  Stay for tutorials.  Late buses run Monday through Thursday.  Our district extends us this privilege, so use it!  We can't change what happened in the past, but you have the power to make the change now.

But you don't have to stay just for academics.

My fondest memories of school are rarely from inside the classroom where the teacher dominates the conversation towards the lecture, but from extra curricular activities.  You'll gain not only skills but make long lasting friendships.  Plus you'll need to join for your college resumes. (I know you're just staring high school, but college is just 4 years away!)  And don't be afraid to try new things.  Try out for the school play.  Go to an Art Club meeting.  Compete in UIL.  It will only expand your experiences.  Keep your mind open.

Freshman year is one of the easier years here at BETA--still challenging but not as intense.  It's important to keep your grades up because this is a competition for ranking.  You'll be thankful come junior year when you're taking pre calculous and physics Pre-AP that you put in the effort for those A's when you were younger.

Overall, Freshmen year is about exploring new possibilities and balancing all your responsibilities. Make new friends, share experiences, and work hard.  Make the most of this year and good luck class of 2014!