Transitioning from junior high to high school can be both fun and challenging. Getting used to one school, and then having to change to a new one can be a difficult experience. A new freshman Izabel Vega said that the transition was “Very weird. I got lost the first week.” Another freshman, Eden Lovelady said, “The transition was pretty easy.”
Going to a new school isn’t the only thing that changes. Along with the transition to a new school means a lot more new people. High school has more students than junior high, so the chances of getting classes with friends is lower. There are students coming from different schools, so there are a variety of people with different interests and hobbies. Eden said, “It’s kind of difficult, everyone’s different.”
Not everyone likes a transition though, as sometimes changes can be a lot for a person. Some people just get comfortable with one environment, and they don’t want to change to a new one, especially if it means a lot of new people. Other people are excited to experience something new, including being able to talk to new people. “ There are more opportunities, and more people,” said Vega. Lovelady said, “I still miss junior high, but high school is a better learning environment.”
High school isn’t just different socially, as it’s academics are different, as well. The grades go from numbers to letters, and people are expected to do a little more, since they have gone into high school now. Some people enjoy having more of an academic challenge, and others might feel like it’s a hard adjustment. Isabel said, “I’m still getting used to it, and I have to ask a lot of questions.” Not everyone is the same though, as Eden said, “High school is actually simpler.” When traveling further up in high school, people also get more options for classes. High school brings a list of options to the table, so it can help students figure out what they want to do for the future.“ I get to explore more, and enjoy what I’m learning,” said Eden. Izabel said, “Yeah, there are lots of choices.”
The education system is also supposed to help prepare students for what college is supposed to be like. Some people find teachers’ teaching styles helpful, but not everyone. Sometimes, the work in high school can be challenging for some students, and they prefer different methods. Vega said, “The learning will help the experiences will be different though.” Lovelady said, “Yes, it will help me deal with different learning styles.”
There are many benefits that can come out of high school. There are things and opportunities in high school that students couldn’t get in junior high. Eden said, “Days go by faster, and the teachers are more committed. Isabel said, “I like the vending machines, and being able to go to the library during lunch.” High school also presents more clubs and events that can help you get involved more in the environment. A good way to get to know people, and discover new interests is trying new clubs or sports. “I’m going to play sports and go to more events,” says Izabel.” Eden said, “I’m going to join Speech and Debate and more clubs, in general.” New freshmen will come every year, and every person will be different, and will experience high school differently.
