Freshman year is stressful, especially when you don’t have anybody to ask for advice. Between finding what careers you want to pursue, balancing tests with extracurriculars, and getting used to high school life, hearing from people who have done it before makes freshman year less stressful. Here is what the upperclassmen had to say if they could do it all over again:

“Grades are SUPER IMPORTANT in freshman year! Some colleges consider them when you apply, and you won’t be allowed to take certain DE/higher level classes if your gpa is too low.” -Rynn Perez-Sheldon, 11th grade

“Showing off isn’t cool. Nobody’s impressed by constant bragging.” -Saturn Gibson,  11th grade

“Do your damn work and don’t be on games the whole time. Also, find something you like to write about, and writing becomes 100 times easier.” -Jesse Holt, 12th grade

“Figure out what study methods work best for you. Some people work better alone, some people work better in groups, and some are a mix. Experiment with what works best for you so you can be your most productive self!” -Clara Golner, Alum

“Take showers” -Kaelyn Hendricks, 11th grade

“Get to know your teachers and show that you care about their class. They’ll help you find educational opportunities, land you jobs, and be willing to write recommendation letters for colleges/internships.” -Yara Shomali, 11th grade

“Don’t be afraid of trying something new! This is the perfect year to try out a new sport, club, or hobby. And when trying something new becomes hard, find your people! Having a support network helps push you through challenges.” -Alessandra Mendoza, 12th grade

“Take classes you can handle but try hard in them.” -Mayah Millhouse, 12th grade

“Take an insanely cool elective that you never would’ve done otherwise.” -Kate Runion, 12th grade

“Try your best, but don’t stress too much about school. It’s not that deep. Also, take naps.” -Eimi Tuttle, 12th grade

“Don’t be weird, and respect the upperclassman + your teachers.” -Rei Sovada, 11th grade

“You can survive through having to take two math classes/double period math. You’ll live.” -Giulia Galvo, 12th grade

“Maturity and patience can get you very far.” -Toby Mickelson, 12th grade

“Freshman year is easier than other years, so have fun. Don’t stress over your grades, but don’t fail your classes.” -Pano Doxakis, 11th grade

“Good luck…” -Lexi Kalish, 11th grade