The first few months of freshman year can be overwhelming. It is a time of joining a new community with new people and more difficult work. But don’t worry, the seniors are here to tell you that it gets better! Here is some of their best advice.
As suggested by Senior Heidi Hudicka, it is important to “try new things like joining clubs and playing new sports.” Partaking in new experiences is one of the best ways to meet new people and make new friends, and freshman year is the best time to do it. Senior Abby Leonardi advised “don’t be afraid to make new friends in your grade and in other grades as well.” Friends in higher grades are a great way to expand your friend group and learn more about athletics, classes, and the school community.
Senior Clara Shin offered her advice regarding academics at PDS. She noted, “meet with teachers often and don’t hesitate to ask for help.” Shin emphasizes that all the teachers at PDS enjoy helping students succeed and encourage meeting with them. Not only is this a great way to get help, but it is also a way to get to know your teachers and learn about their expectations for the class. PDS also has many helpful resources available to help with schoolwork: For example, the Writing and SIMS centers are almost always staffed and are solely there to help students with their work.
Overall, the best thing you can do is get involved. Join clubs and sports and meet with teachers. The steps you take freshman year will set you up for a better high school experience, so do your best to go outside of your comfort zone. Though taking risks can be difficult, I promise it will be worth it in the end.
