The Welcome: Advice for Grade Nines

By Islay Chidiac

Welcome to high school! The staff at The Orator hopes your first months as secondary students have been pleasant, as you embark on a four-year journey that will shape you into the person that you will become. As daunting as the next four years may seem, the most formative experiences, opportunities, and catalysts for growth lie before you. While you transition into this chasm between childhood and adulthood, explore the following advice on how to navigate your first year of high school.

1. Connect with your teachers and guidance counsellors.

Teachers and guidance counsellors are the greatest assets in your academic journey. They are not simply vessels of information; they are here to help you reach your academic goals and grow as a student and person. Building relationships with teachers and guidance counsellors empowers you to ask for help and feedback, while also giving them greater context to understand your learning processes. In addition to benefiting your academics, these connections enable you to apply to future opportunities with excellent references that reflect your skills and growth. 

2. Utilize resources available to you.

Taking advantage of the school’s resources is essential to your success as a student. As mentioned previously, teachers are simply invaluable; they will provide additional explanations, advice, and supplementary resources if you ask them. Similarly, guidance counsellors offer a variety of services that are designed to assist you academically and mentally. Our school offers free tutoring - a resource that can drastically improve your skills, understanding, and consequently, confidence in your ability to succeed. These resources are waiting for you; all you have to do is ask. 

3. Build a strong foundation for later grades.

Grade nine may not affect your post-secondary future, but it is essential for establishing habits and skills that will impact your work as a senior student. Set yourself up for success by implementing organizational habits, such as the use of a planner. Likewise, foster initiative by self-advocating to ensure you are well prepared for later grades. It is also imperative that you pay attention in class, take notes, and keep tests and assignments, so you can compile references for advanced topics as a senior student. Such diligence enables you to discover your learning style, which allows you to determine the study techniques that are conducive to your success. In terms of preparation in a tangible sense, ensure that you consider graduation and post-secondary admission requirements throughout high school. Always remember to minimize stress in later grades by preparing and being proactive in grade nine!

4. Take care of your mental health.

The transition into high school - and the stressors that accompany it - is universally overwhelming. The most important piece of advice as you adjust is not to be discouraged. High school challenges everyone in some respect; you are not alone! In fact, there are a multitude of digital and school-sponsored resources available promoting mental well-being. Ensure that you practice habits that help you feel your best; for example, you can combat stress by implementing breathing techniques, and you can foster a positive outlook by writing down the highlights of your day or what you are grateful for. If you find yourself struggling with your mental health, please ask for help. Your family, friends, teachers, and guidance counsellors all care about you - they will help you feel your best. Never be afraid to reach out!

5. Practice a growth mindset.

On the topic of mental health, practicing a growth mindset is critical in aiding your learning and well-being. Perfection is non-existent; you are in a constant process of enriching yourself, developing your skills, and becoming yourself. Once you recognize this, you have opened yourself up to a pathway of growth, with the knowledge that challenges are opportunities and practice is responsible for success. This combination of realism and positivity will empower you to reach your goals as a high school student, while also maintaining your mental well-being. 

6. Join clubs, councils, and teams.

Participating in co-curriculars is what makes your high school experience whole! Not only are these activities fun, but they are also opportunities to meet like-minded people and find mentors in older students. Furthermore, co-curricular participation enhances your resume, teaches valuable life skills, and opens doors for other opportunities. As well, involving yourself in the school community is a fantastic way to adjust to high school itself. This time in your life is your only chance to join clubs, councils, and teams - make the most of it!

7. Making friends.

Developing friendships in grade nine is a sort of a juxtaposition: perhaps the most prolific source of joy, perhaps the most prolific source of stress. Fear not, because like-minded people tend to gravitate towards each other. If you are kind, respectful, and friendly - the nice kid - friendships will surely fall into place. In fact, friendships are often sparked in courses like gym and art, which allow students to make connections and bond with peers. Talk to people who sit at your art table or are part of your gym team; don’t be afraid because your future best friend may be right under your nose! However, it is also important to note that not all people get along - and that's okay. Do not get involved with people who make you uncomfortable; it will only cause you drama in the future. Instead, choose friends who bring out the best in you, make you feel appreciated, and with whom you can be your true self!

8. Enjoy your high school experience!

People always say high school is the quickest four years of your life - make the most of it. Try something new! Join clubs, councils, and teams, even if you don’t know anyone. Pick electives and opportunities that interest you - you’ll have only one chance to enjoy them. Don’t be afraid to participate in activities or events; they will enrich your experience, guaranteed. Embrace the world of opportunities that have opened up for you!

Transitioning from elementary school to high school is certainly an experience that you will never forget. You cannot predict the triumphs and tribulations that await you, although The Orator staff hopes our advice empowers you to confidently face the journey of high school. As you implement our advice, cherish the fact that your next four years will be characterized by growth - academically, socially, and emotionally. It’s time to become the person that you will one day be. Good luck!