How to Survive the School Year

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How to Survive the School Year

By:Brettney Swainston
Journalism 9

There is one question on the mind of every student in September: “How am I going to survive the school year?” This is a very valid question. In this article, I will discuss the most common causes for student stress, and how to breeze right through them.

A very basic human “want” is to feel like you fit in with your peers. This is not always easy. In my opinion, in order to have good friends you have to be a good friend. It is important not to surround yourself with negative influences. If someone gives you a hard time about something you do not feel comfortable doing, they are not a real friend. If you are having trouble with friends or fitting in you can always contact the Kids Help Phone at kidshelpphone.ca or call 1-800-668-6868. The best thing you can do to beat the “back to school friend stress” is to be yourself, and surround yourself with people that make you feel good about who you are.

Other than peer issues, the least favourite thing about school for most students is homework and exams. The best way to escape bad marks is to be proactive not reactive. You can never be too prepared. In order to do well on assignments, quizzes, tests, exams, etc, you have to have good study habits. One of the worst things you can do if you do not understand something is not ask for help. Making sure you understand something in the first place along with good study habits will make homework and studying less painful. For more information on studying tips, you can visit www.studygs.net or www.adprima.com/study.

Now that we are getting older, we are expected to learn how to plan ahead, and that’s not just in regards to upcoming tests and assignments. We have to start thinking about the future. The pressure to get a good job is huge. There is a lot of stress involved in trying not to disappoint people.

The best way to get a good job is do well in school now before it is too late. It is a lot easier to do well now than work your butt off to do well later. No matter how hard you work though, it’s important to try and set realistic goals. Talk to parents, teachers, and other people you look up to for support and advice. Don’t set the bar too high, because no one wants to be a failure. But if you set it too low you will never know your true potential. If you are worried about getting a good job and need advice, you can always talk to a guidance counsellor or even your health teacher. This will help keep you on track for your future.

Unfortunately, there is no handbook on how to fit in with your peers, how to have guaranteed good marks, or how to secure a solid stress free future. However, as long as you show people respect, be disciplined in your studies and goals, and try to give 100% in everything you do- you will be the best you can be.