By Romy Haddad

Welcome back everybody! As a new school year awaits us, here’s a Back to School survival guide to help you start strong and focused, while also making the most of the year we have ahead!

Essentials

While settling back into study mode, it is important to have a few essentials by your side: notebooks, pens, books, charger, bottle of water… Also, organise your timetable to make sure you know where you’re going, before Mr Steve catches you wandering the halls. If you do feel lost, always feel free to ask your teachers or fellow schoolmates for any  directions –  finding your way shouldn’t be all that hard in a small school like Med High anyways!

Making friends

Are you new to the school or looking to make new friends? Here are a few ways to do so, without having to deal with any awkwardness. Start the conversation with a simple “hi, how are you”, but don’t just stand there awkwardly after, follow up with icebreakers like “How was your summer?” –  that will surely spark some conversation. You can even join the Med High Journal team or some other after-school clubs to make friends, such as the Eco Club, Debate Club and Charity Club. These clubs will definitely allow you to connect with others through cooperative, collaborative work, which makes it easier to build friendships and connections.

Schoolwork 

Schoolwork can easily pile up the second week if you’re not careful, so turn your Google Classroom notifications on ASAP – or else you might risk getting reported…yikes! Getting a planner app also might help you remember important school dates.

Once the school year starts getting serious, you should develop a study routine. For instance, you can download one of the viral “focus apps” to help you concentrate on your schoolwork by locking all distracting apps until you are done studying.

Staying healthy

Taking care of your physical as well as mental health is just as important as your academics. Prioritize getting 8 to 9 hours of sleep each night to keep your brain sharp. Additionally, make sure to eat regular meals, don’t use school as an excuse to skip breakfast!! If you feel overwhelmed, reach out to friends, family, or the school’s psychologist as well as a teacher you trust. Make time for yourself; don’t overload your brain – take breaks from studying, listen to music, go out with your friends, go for a walk, go to the gym. Do whatever brings you peace and enjoy your ultimate high school experience!

That’s all! At the end of the day, just show up, be organized and keep trying. The Med High Journalism Team wishes you all a good school year!!