Entering high school never becomes any easier, and for freshman Reagan Grace, it has been a big adjustment. She described that one of the toughest things at first was planning her time carefully.  “I wish someone had shown me how to manage time,” she described. “I thought I could just dilly dally on my off. But then I realized that I really need to focus, study, and put in some hard work.”

As with all first years, Grace had to get used to a new routine and schedule, and when asked her about who helped the most she said. “Mostly friends, and the upperclassmen here pretty much assisted me to sort of get an idea of where I was heading and what I was doing,” she mentioned. Having people to look up to made the transition easier and gave her someone to follow when she wasn’t sure where to go.

When asked what stood out most from the transition from middle school to high school, she said. “I’ve noticed the new found freedom,” Grace explained. “You can just leave when you want pretty much and come when you want.” That freedom is something most freshmen pick up on right away. It’s wonderful, but what it means is learning how to deal with it & be responsible.

Grace has already started thinking about what she would like to achieve this year. “I want to have good grades and be able to help other people,” she said. “I hope the year ends on a good `note.”

It’s natural that the first year could be intimidating, but Grace’s mindset proves she’s willing to get it done. With support from her peers and motivation on her own end, she’s not working for survival of the first year, but rather seeking to make it meaningful.