12 Oct Road Map for October: Freshmen

As we get further into the school year, I hope you’re finding your rhythm and feeling confident navigating high school life. This year is all about building a strong foundation, both academically and personally. Teachers will expect more independence from you than in middle school, but remember that you’re not expected to handle everything on your own. If your grades aren’t where you’d like them to be yet, now is the time to connect with your teachers, ask questions, and make sure you understand what success looks like in each class.

Equally important is how you manage your time. Staying organized and keeping up with assignments is one of the biggest predictors of success in 9th grade. Use a planner not only to keep a list of assignments, but also to schedule when you’ll do them—and don’t wait until the last minute. Building these habits now will benefit you for the next four years.

Outside of class, high school offers so many new opportunities. This is the perfect time to explore clubs, sports, and activities, whether you’re continuing something you love or trying something entirely new. Getting involved will help you discover your interests and make new connections as you make your high school experience what you want it to be.