Transition into High School

For those fellow eighth graders out there (you know who you are), maybe you feel a little stressed out about high school next year. That’s okay! There’s probably a list of things that are going to be new, exciting, scary, and overwhelming. Questions like: what electives should I take? How do credits work? Is the work load the same? Or simply, what do I do? Trust me, I know what it feels like. 

The first thing I want you to do is take a breath and relax. “You don't need to have everything figured out day one,” says ORCA senior Taylor Byrne. 

High school seems really scary, but once you get there you’ll be fine, just think back to fifth grade when you thought middle school was the new college. Was it a little scary? Sure, but you’ve survived three years and another four won’t hurt. 

Electives and Credits

High school electives are a whole lot different than the electives you have been taking since sixth grade. The electives you will be taking next year count towards the credits you need in order to graduate. Some of you may already be in a high school elective, meaning the credit earned in said course will count towards your high school credits and GPA (Grade Point Average). There will be many different electives to choose from. Keep in mind that picking too many electives might not be the best option in your first year of high school. But your advisory teacher can help with that. 

Clubs and Student Groups 

Clubs and student organizations are a great and fun way to connect with peers. ORCA offers many different clubs and a handful of student academic groups. Many students have said that in high school, finding your people is essential and clubs are a great way to do that. So find a club that interests you or maybe is related to your hobbies. 

In addition to the many clubs, you can also apply to be a Student Government senator in the fall or run for an executive position in the spring, apply to be an NHS member, and get involved in course specific programs like ASCEND’s HOSA (for healthcare) and FFA (for agriculture). 

Tips and Tricks 

-Take notes (keep them organized by course and year)

-Don't procrastinate on assignments and due work. It will pile up.

-Don’t be afraid to ask questions (teachers are there to help!)