When people tell you that high school goes fast, believe them. It feels like it was last year when I was in your shoes, shaking off nerves and trying to get settled into my classes. It wasn’t last year, though. That was three years ago, and now I’m a senior. Looking back, if I could give freshmen any advice, it would be to do what makes you happy. Everyone is different, and you’re entitled to do what brings you the most joy.

Nonetheless, I’m going to take some time to paint a picture of what happiness has looked like for me. As a freshman, I decided to join the crew team, something that I absolutely love. It keeps me in shape, I’ve gained leadership skills I never would’ve been exposed to otherwise and I’ve made a group of lifelong friends out of my teammates. I’m also in Chamber Choir, where I can practice my love of singing and stay busy outside of crew season. I enjoy writing as well, which is a skill that has expanded and improved since joining The Journal staff. 

I feel that being involved has helped bring me my main source of happiness in my time here at PHS, and I think it could help you feel more comfortable. Though, it’s not for everyone. The truth is, you have to find your own happiness. It’s up to you, but don’t wait for it. You’ve got to make it for yourself, whatever that may look like. 

I wish you the best of luck,

Catherine Hayes

This year my little brother started his first year of high school. As we were preparing for school, I thought back on my freshman year for some advice that I could give him. I showed him around the school and gave him some tips to try to make his freshman year go as smoothly as possible. Here are some big sister tips that I gave him that I think would be helpful for everyone:

• Join a club or play a sport. Doing something that you enjoy will help you to meet new people with the same interests as you and make new friends.
• Don’t be scared to ask for help. If you’re walking through the halls lost or you’re confused about something going on in your classes, ask teachers for help. They are there to teach you. How can you learn if you don’t know what is going on?
• Turn in all of your work on time. Middle school teachers always tell you about how strict high school teachers are, and they are right. They have higher expectations and are not as forgiving as the middle school teachers.
• Be respectful and kind to everyone. Try to stay out of trouble and don’t hang out with people who are bad influences. 
• Most importantly, HAVE FUN. You are just a teenager so don’t overload yourself. Just enjoy your high school years. Hang out with your friends and go to school events and make the most of your time at PHS. 

I wish you all the best,

Emma Casto

It doesn’t matter. Wear what you want, listen to what music makes you feel happy, join the clubs that sound interesting and remember it doesn’t matter. The biggest advice for high school is to do what makes you happy. Find your people, the ones who make you laugh so much your stomach hurts and the ones who make you a better person. This is the last stop before the real world for many, so remember, something that feels life ending right now will be nothing but a buried memory in the future. It probably doesn’t matter. So do spirit days, go to games, sing a song, read a book, talk to others, try a new hobby and take a chance. You’ve got this and as Taylor Swift sang, “Everything you lose is a step you take, So make the friendship bracelets, take the moment and taste it, You’ve got no reason to be afraid, You’re on your own, kid.”

(P.S. the hallways aren’t that big, walk at a decent pace and get to class.)

Best Wishes,

Brooklyn Miller

I remember walking into PHS on my first day of high school terrified. I was so worried I wouldn’t fit in or make any new friends. But the thing I found helped me get over those fears the most was joining clubs. It helps you get connected within your school and opens you up to so many new and fun opportunities. Another piece of advice is to branch out, socialize and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Freshman year is the year you start to figure out who you are and who you want to be throughout your four years here. I know, it’s a new and scary environment, but once you step out of that bubble you’re able to let go of all those freshman year anxieties and enjoy school. The last piece of advice I have is the wise words of Pumbaa and Timon, “Hakuna Matata”. It means no worries or take it easy. Try your best not to stress yourself out, I promise it will all be okay. Don’t forget to have fun. But still get your work done and don’t procrastinate!

Have a great year, enjoy it!

-Aubrie

First of all, get it ingrained in your brain that school WILL get better as you go on. I didn’t really enjoy my first two years of classes, as they were too easy for me, but now I’m in classes tailored to my interests and knowledge level.  However, if you want to be able to take classes you want, I advise you to take health and gym over the summer. It’s easier over the summer and your schedule will be free of these two subjects. Once you get the necessary stuff out of your way, that’s when school gets better.

Another great tip that will save your butt is to be respectful and kind to your teachers. They already work hard enough, so they don’t need more people giving them gray hairs. Also, if you don’t want to get shoved, quit walking slowly or stopping in the middle of the hallway. I know you want to talk to your friends, but you’re just making life harder for everyone that wants to get to class on time.

If you were to only take one thing out of this letter, it’s that you need to actually do ALL of your work. Yes, that includes homework assignments that are only graded for participation. While grades shouldn’t be stressed over, they are still important for getting into classes and extracurricular activities you like. Your school work prepares you for the real world when you have to do tasks you don’t like in a limited amount of time. School will be a total waste of time for you if you just play on your phone all class. It’s nearly impossible to fail your freshman year, as long as you just attempt your work.

It may be corny, but my final message is to enjoy yourself and don’t let people bring you down.

-Liliana

Starting high school is scary. But I was in your shoes last year, and I have some advice!

Try to make friends in classes, even if it’s someone you don’t talk to outside of class, because it’s good to have a class friend. Stay caught up with schoolwork, and go to all of your classes. Be nice to teachers, and try to be friends with them, because it will help a lot. Participate in class and raise your hand. Even if you get answers wrong, no one is paying attention. Surround yourself with good people that let you be yourself. Avoid drama, it makes things miserable. Try your hardest in class. It is beneficial to you and teachers will see that you are trying. 

I hope you have a great year!

-Gabrielle

Hey, class of 2028! It’s totally normal to feel a mix of excitement and nerves as you start this new chapter. Don’t worry, you’ve got this. Here’s my list of quick tips to help you make the most of your high school experience:

School Stuff:

• Talk to Your Teachers: If you’re unsure about where to go, or how to get somewhere, just ask a teacher. They’re here to help.
• Make Friends with Older Kids: They can give you the inside scoop on everything from classes to clubs.
• Stay Out of Trouble: Focus on your classwork and avoid drama. Trust me, it’s not worth it.
• Join Clubs and Sports: These can be a lot of fun and help you make new friends.

Personal Growth:

• It’s Okay to Feel Stressed: High school can be stressful, but it’s totally normal. Just remember to take breaks and take care of yourself.
• Stay Positive: A positive attitude can go a long way. Believe in yourself!
• Don’t Vape: It’s not good for you and can get you into trouble.
• Do Your Own Work: Cheating is never okay. It’s important to learn and grow on your own.
• Stay Organized: Keep track of your assignments and deadlines so you don’t forget anything.

Making Friends:

• Be Yourself: The best way to make friends is to be genuine and authentic.
• Try New Things: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things.
• Go to Class: You’ll meet lots of people there.
• Be Kind: Treat others the way you want to be treated.

Remember, high school is a journey, not a race. Take it one day at a time and have fun.

-Keep on livin’

Elijah Wiant