Ten Things we Wish we Would Have Known in Grade 7

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Ten Things we Wish we Would Have Known in Grade 7

By: Riley Mayes and Lyndsay MacDonald
9F Journalism

Upgrading to Junior high has more pressure and way less time, which can be a very tough concept to grasp being so new to all of this. What most of the elementary kids are used to, does not apply here. While in elementary, you’re sitting in one classroom waiting for the teacher to come to you, but now you must learn to hurry to their classrooms. Remember; be aware of the changes coming your way.

#1: Time management is a very important component in Junior High. Having ten minute breaks every so often doesn’t give you the right to just chill and doddle in the halls, they give you this freedom to get prepared for the next classes awaiting you. The halls are pretty crowded, so be sure to take text books or whatever you may need for your next few classes, so you don’t get too behind. If you do end up going to your locker between periods, HURRY!

#2: Know where you’re going. Being in such a big environment can be tough, especially when you’re trying to get to class, or have a quick stop at your locker (which may be at the opposite end of the school). Although it may be challenging to get past the crowds, keep patient and hope your teachers will understand But don’t take their generosity for granted, it’s really not a free trip to be late every single day with the same excuse.

#3: Don’t be intimidated. Seeing those big grade eights and nines walking down the hallways, is still scary to this day, but that shouldn’t stop you from asking them for help. Even though they look like they will be rude, looks can be deceiving. The students here are courteous and will lead you in the right direction if you are lost or need something. Please don’t let them intimidate you.

#4: Get Involved. Participating in extra curricular activities, such as volleyball and basketball is so hard when you don’t know anyone, and you’re new in a school. Not knowing where the skill level is at, or if you even stand a chance. Rejection is a hard thing to learn, but we all have to go through it at one point in life. But just remember with commitment and determination you’ll succeed. Don’t think of it as something scary; keep in mind that you’re going to the school for two more years. There’s no better time to get involved. Sports teams love when grade sevens try out, so they can see what amazing players they will have in the years to come.

#5: Get Organized. Being in junior high, with so many expectations can be a lot to carry on your shoulders. How sad that you may not have room to carry it in your backpack, which is why organization is such a key factor. Keeping your binders and lockers neat is such a pain in the butt, but when you need to look for your study materials, you’ll be thankful.

#6: Finals aren’t so far away! The end of the year is such a joyous time. Just thinking about summer vacation, no school, no teachers, gives everyone butterflies, but this does not mean it’s time to slack off. Finals are a big part of your grade; your report card depends on this exam! You can’t overstress though, because that won’t help either. Your teachers will have prepped you with the proper notes and the appropriate review time.

#7: Be heard. Get involved in your school! Voice your opinion! You deserve to be heard. Schools love students who participate, who aren’t afraid to show their school spirit. Being younger doesn’t mean your opinion doesn’t matter. This is your school and your future… If there is a matter at hand that needs to be discussed, be the one to express it.

#8: Figure out who is who. It’s pretty obvious that you don’t have the same teachers for all your classes. It’s important to observe your teachers to the fullest extent possible. Of course it sounds weird, but it’s really not. What you can get away with in one classroom, doesn’t mean it’s alright to do the same thing in another teachers room. Don’t push your luck, SERIOUSLY.

#9: Get over it! We all have those people who annoy us. Take a second to picture those people who just tick you off. You know the ones; the kids who you see walking in the hall and you just give the dirtiest look to. Now, STOP! Wasn’t a very nice picture, was it? Well, things are different now; you basically HAVE to deal with those people without complaining. You have to learn to swallow your pride, and just suck it up… Teachers in junior high aren’t here to baby sit you, they’re here to give you guidelines and teach you the material needed.

#10: Don’t get sucked in. Peer pressure is going to be one of the biggest issues you will have to deal with, whether it’s smoking and drinking, to copying homework and fighting. You really can’t get away from it, since it’s everywhere. Sure, you can avoid it, but somewhere along the lines, you’ll have to deal with it, which is why you should be surrounding yourself with people who wouldn’t imagine pressuring you. Keep your mind focused on what you believe is right, and you’ll be fine.

Changes can be some of the most awful things to come along in junior high, but we all deal with it, you’re not different or strange. Keep sight of your goals, and follow some guidelines, and junior high will be very fun. Trust us.