The students that volunteer their time and knowledge on Reach a Student are eligible to receive community service hours. We are looking to expand our roster of academic and athletic mentors, interviewers, and video editors to help inspire and answer school-related questions. Join Us!
What Is Reach a Student?
Reach a Student is a website established to give students direct communication access to student mentors in various grade levels. Students will be able to reach out to other students and ask any questions they have regarding student and campus life. The site will also stream videos of students sharing their experiences at Windermere Prep as well as activities around campus. Find Out More
As a new student, I know how difficult switching schools can be especially during these times where we are all going through huge changes in our lifestyle. At times you may feel overwhelmed over the amount of new information that you are constantly receiving, and these feelings are normal but remember, don't fret too much, because at some point or another it is very likely that everyone has been new somewhere or at something and has gone through this process. Based on my experience, these are a few tips that I recommend to make this transition a lot smoother:
● Try to keep organized- stress is instantly amplified if you feel like you have too much going on at a time or like you aren't on top of things. Something that has helped me to combat this, is this app called memo on my laptop, where I can keep little sticky notes on my desktop, where I store my agenda for the day and keep a checklist of everything I need to do.
● Keep in contact with your old friends, it doesn't matter if they're in another city, state, or even another country!- Maintaining a relationship with the people I miss has personally helped me when I started feeling homesick.
● It sounds cliche, but don't be afraid to ask for help- I promise it's not that big of a deal to ask questions if you're lost, it happens to everyone. No question is a stupid question, but if it is a stupid question at least you get a good laugh!
● Take time to settle in- Especially with IB, it could feel like there's a lot you have to do all the time, I know because I felt the same way (and still currently kind of do). There's a lot to think about, from all the papers to come, to TOK, to the CAS portfolio, etc. but there's also a lot of time to think about that. Don't feel like you have to figure out everything right now, take your time.
As long as you don't take yourself to seriously and keep a positive attitude and open mind, a very overused motivational phrase, but still very true, you'll be just fine.
