Now that you have had your first taste of high school, how do you like it, freshmen? Some say easy, some say challenging, and it will most likely become harder year after year in various aspects. This is the best time to get yourself into gear and develop positive habits to smooth over the rocky road ahead of you.

Do not concern yourself with others’ drama. This should go without mention but lowerclassmen tend to distract themselves with the lives of others and thus neglect their own social and academic simulation. Don’t bother with others. Make friends, but don’t become digested into their world of negativity. Focus on yourself and make sure you’re doing well, physically, mentally, and emotionally. It is not always selfish to focus on your own being and your own success.

Clean up your workspace. Not trying to sound like your mother, but cleaning your surroundings can be a great distraction to stress while also being productive. Another bonus if you’re far more likely to succeed in a functional environment. Organized room often equals organized mind.

Don’t freak out over small things. Of course try your best to accomplish what you can, but the world doesn’t stop over a bad grade or a tardy. Pick yourself up and move forward. Most times you can’t change your future but don’t let your past regrets take away from what matters now.

Use a planner. It’s not for everyone, but for some it is a real lifesaver. It organizes your work and events and lays out what to prepare for. Plus, it’s better for some people to physically write things down. It’s worth a try if you’re struggling with time management or memory of assignments/exams.

Sit in the front. If you can, sit in the front where you’re probably more able to see the board and listen to instructions. This measure oddly makes a huge difference as in many classes the quieter students are near the front and their habits are easier to absorb (examples being doing their work in class, not talking, taking more notes, etc.).

Use Thursday tutoring. Don’t go onto the next lesson without fully understanding the current one. The problem won’t automatically go away just because you ignore it for a while. Ask for help and see what you can do better for the sake of your grade and overall GPA.

Form a study group. Of course having the ability to train yourself to study independently is essential, but sometimes groups work better. As long as the group is efficient in doing actual work, having others around makes your social life easier and more enjoyable while also bonding over work you probably all would rather not do.