I can’t believe I’m starting Mountainside High School this month! Can I survive? I have a plan

Today isn’t just another day, it’s a new opportunity, a new chance, a new beginning.

This month, a lot of students all around Beaverton are going into high school, and I am one of them. If you’re like me, a nervous incoming freshman (or if you know someone who is going to start high school this year), then we are not alone. For me, in just a few weeks, I will be attending Mountainside High School.

Why am I nervous? Well, I’m pretty nervous because I’m going to a new school that’s way bigger, and with a ton of kids (most of whom are going to be older and bigger than me). There will be new faces, new classes, and new schedules. These are the main reasons I’m worried, but I have a plan.

First of all, think positive. This means, going into the first day of high school with a smile on my face. High school is a great chance to have a fresh start and discover who you want to be. It’s good to put yourself out there, get out of your comfort zone, and make new friends. Having a positive attitude is important throughout the year. I recommend looking for opportunities to get to know others and try new things.

Speaking of trying new things, a couple of years ago, I completely took a chance by signing up for a sport that I’ve never done before. Joining the cross-country team, however, was one of the best choices I made in middle school. At first, I didn’t think I would do well, but it pushed me to try new things and meet new people, both older and younger than me. I built trust with my coaches and made a lot of amazing friendships with people who were supportive, hardworking, and kind. It also led me to try a similar sport in the spring, track & field. Clubs are just like sports so, when I get to Mountainside, I’m absolutely going to explore new choices, join a sport, and a couple of fun clubs.

Have you ever used a planner? Not the digital kind. I’m talking about the kind you can write in. I got my first planner in 5th grade, and it really helped me stay organized throughout middle school. It keeps me on top of things like school assignments, tests, cross country practices, friend’s birthday, and even orthodontist appointments. In middle school, there were so many things I had to remember, my planner was quite full. When I get to high school, I expect that there will be even more things to keep track of. This is why I will carry my planner with me everywhere I go (no batteries needed).

The first day of high school is going to be scary. When I get to my first class, I will smile and think positively as I take out my planner to write down the week’s schedule. Later in the day, I’ll check to see what kinds of sports and clubs I might want to join. I’m not sure if this is the best plan, but at least having this plan makes me feel less worried. I wonder if having a plan, even a simple one, is good not just for the first day of high school, but for whenever you start something new?

Kanako Wong is a Freshman at Mountainside High School. In her free time she enjoys running, photography, and spending time outdoors with her family.