Jordon Shenhar ’13
Web Features Editor

For most of us, today marks a return to the mundane routines of our everyday school lives. But for this year’s incoming class of freshmen, today is a new beginning.

Almost everyone remembers dreading the first day of freshman year. Not only are freshmen going from being on top to being the youngest — and for the most part least respected — students in school, they also have to deal with more work, more responsibility, more people, more choices, and a much bigger building.

But for the vast majority of people, freshman year isn’t nearly as bad as expected. In fact, I’m sure that some people actually loved it. Although I can’t say I loved being a freshman, I still had a very good year, and I had a much better time than I thought I would. Here are a few things to keep in mind in order to stay sane and and enjoy your freshman year:

Don’t stress out over your workload. If there was one problem with my freshman year, it was that I panicked over everything. In hindsight, I had no reason to worry. I was terrified of how much work I was going to have from the first day I set foot in Staples, but the workload is reasonable and not a huge step up from middle school. I had roughly the same amount of tests and projects in eighth and ninth grade, and even though Staples has a lot more homework, it just makes you more prepared for tests. The biggest difference is that there is a lot less test preparation in class; you are expected to study on your own. Focus on studying well and doing your best, and you will do fine.

Do what you like. Staples offers dozens of clubs, organizations, and sports teams. Join extracurriculars that you’re interested in. Not only are clubs and activities great for college applications, they can be fun and are a great way to find what you love to do and find new friends. If you have an idea for a club that isn’t offered at Staples, anyone can apply to start a new club.

Stay organized. This is probably the most important principle to follow. Always keep old homework and classwork somewhere safe to use to study for tests, including midterms and finals. Write down assignments if it helps you remember them. And never procrastinate. If you start studying or working on projects early and steadily work on them, it doesn’t seem like that much work, and you will most likely get a better grade.

Within the first few weeks of school, I’m sure that all the freshmen will have adjusted to this new school. Class of 2014, best of luck in your first year at Staples.