While the Class of 2024 has been through a challenging yet memorable high school experience, the Dallastown freshmen are just getting started. Seniors provide insightful tips for the new batch of students including academics, relationships and more. 

Academics

Although the social aspect of high school is important, it’s just as important to maintain grades and choose good courses. About 60% of seniors who filled out our survey said that classes and grades were the toughest things to navigate. 

“Don’t take a class because your friend is taking it or wants you to take it too. Spend time on your work and learn what your talents and weaknesses are,” senior Juno Rivera says. 

The classwork can get very intense and stressful, so make sure you give yourself enough mental time.

“Put your mental health first, but also still prioritize school work,” Ava Gist mentions. 

Taking five classes can seem like a lot and most students find it difficult to manage the workload. 

“Use your time wisely in class, teachers typically give time to work on assignments & homework after lessons, so use it,” Meghan Kelly shared.

Sports, Activities and Clubs

As mentioned earlier, getting exposure to the social parts of high school are very important, not only for the 4 years you spend here, but also for the rest of your life. It’s very helpful to make connections early on by joining clubs, sports teams or participating in other school activities. 

“Get involved! Some of my closest relationships have come from being involved in clubs with both students and teachers, along with giving me insight into what I’m interested in doing in my future career,” says senior, Meghan Kelly.

Although it’s the first year and  might make you feel nervous, it’s very significant to take part in school events & activities to form bonds. 

“Participate! If you see something interesting, do it! Don’t be anxious about it, the people are always great,” John Patterson mentions. 

Relationships

In addition to making social connections with your peers, it’s also [important] to maintain relationships with your teachers/counselors, family or significant others.

“Even when you’re busy, make sure to make those people still feel like they’re part of your life,” senior Grace McWilliams said. 

“

Drama happens, try to stay out of it and don’t take sides.

— Alan Garcia-Rivera

“Don’t let drama or anything get to you; always think ‘will this matter next week/month/year?’ If the answer is no, then it is not worth your time,” mentioned John Patterson.

Many seniors who took the advice survey pointed out that changing friends throughout high school is just part of the experience and it’s important to avoid toxic relationships.

“Communicate openly, often and honestly,” William Marick quotes.

Social Media

Without a doubt, mental health is most important. The use of social media among teens is rising, which makes it easy to get caught up in the drama, and lose touch with what’s important.

“Don’t use it a lot, it’s draining and taking a break from it is always helpful,” senior Alan Garcia-Rivera says.

Most teenagers, roughly 70% of teenagers in the U.S have reported that social media caused them stress, anxiety and depression.

“Don’t let it distract you from the things you actually care about,” said Lydia Insalaco.

Senior Year

The Class of 2024 had lots of advice to the freshmen about senior year.

Senior year can be very exciting, but try to stay academically active in class and participate as much as you can.

“Make sure you’re paying attention and still following school guidelines,” Alan Garcia-Rivera mentions.

You’re probably familiar with everyone stressing about their senior year, but it doesn’t always have to cause anxiety. Senior year will provide you with so many opportunities, but also don’t forget to make it fun. 

“It goes by quickly, and gives you lots of opportunities to take fun classes,” Senior Meghan Kelly pointed out. 

The final year of high school might seem far off, but it will come a lot faster than you think. 

“Just have fun,” says senior Mason Johnson.