I would like to offer some advice to students: get connected! There are many ways you can get connected in high school and have fun, be challenged, and learn about yourself. You should put yourself out there — try new things. For example, I ran for STUCO. Even though I did not win, this process was such a stretch for my personality. Getting in front of everyone to make my speech and answer questions made me more comfortable with being vulnerable. Another way is gathering those people around you, including upper classmen, who will challenge you and offer solid advice when you need it. Another way to get connected is not to be intimidated by the teachers and coaches. They truly want to help, so you should be willing to talk to them and get help when you need it. When you get to know their personalities and they know you, it makes the year go more smoothly. They will know you better and will be able to pick up on your responses when you struggle with the work. Then they can help you and challenge you more.
Remember: get connected! You will find that you won’t feel so alone and scared.
~anon
