Advice to the Class of 2021

Each spring, we ask grade nine students to reflect on the past school year and share advice about the transition to high school with the current eighth grade. Here is advice from the class of 2020 to the class of 2021.

Starting in a new place:

1. It's a little scary at first, but once you know your way around and all the teachers, it's easy.
2. Don't stress over the changing of buildings. It's easy to navigate (BHS) and teachers are supercool.
3. High school is more fun than what it seems. All of the classes are interesting.
4. Be prepared for new experiences and looking forward to what you want to do later in life.
5. Just be yourself.
6. Be open to making new friends.
7. Don’t stress out too much. It’s a big change, but you get used to it fast.

Getting around:

1. Don't worry about being lost in the beginning of the year. The teachers will help you.
2. Ask for directions!
3. Know cut-throughs between the library and art rooms when going to classes. And don’t be afraid to talk to or ask older students for help! (we're not as scary as we seem)
4. Walk around the school before the year starts. If you get lost, just ask someone. They’re very helpful.
5. YOU WILL FIND YOUR WAY AROUND THE SCHOOL.

Academics:

1. I say be prepared for the tests. Studying effectively is important, more in high school.
2. Don’t slack, even on easy assignments.
3. Keep focus in class and take notes.
4. Stay organized.
5. Do not wait until the last hour to study or do your work.
6. Don’t miss any homework and respect your teachers.
7. Don’t stress too much about a few tests; there’s always time to do better.
8. Don’t play games on your iPad and don’t give teachers a hard time.
9. Don’t stress out a lot because it will just go downhill from there.
10. School comes before sports.
11. Pick a subject that you enjoy for high levels. For subjects you enjoy less, pick lower levels.
12. Really take homework seriously. It’s helpful for quizzes and tests.
13. Ask for help as soon as you need it. Don’t wait until the end of the year.
14. Even if you don’t finish an assignment, turn it in for partial credit.
15. Take advantage of extra credit.

Getting involved:

1. Do whatever clubs you want- even if you only show up once and find out you don’t like it still try it.
2. Don’t only focus on school; save time for hobbies, friends, extracurriculars, and family.
3. Try new things; it pays off.
4. Don’t feel bad if you’re not as good at sports compared to the older students.
5. Doing a sport and trying new things is helpful. You don’t always need prior experience- give it a shot.
6. Relax and have fun!
7. If you plan to do extracurriculars, make sure you have rides.
8. Don’t try to force yourself into a group. You’ll just naturally form a group of friends without noticing it.
   

Financial Aid Workshop

Many families focus on the college search, selection and admission process. We believe that figuring out how to pay for college is also an important part of this process. The BHS Guidance Department will sponsor a Financial Aid Workshop hosted College Funding Services on:

Thursday June 8th at 6:30 in the BHS Auditorium. 

This seminar will provide information on:

         (1)   Overview of the entire financial aid process

(2)   What you can do to minimize your family contribution, and maximize your eligibility for need-based financial aid

(3)   Why you should apply even if you WILL NOT qualify for need-based aid

(4)   Fin Aid deadlines i.e. FAFSA/CSS profile

(5)   How to value different assets – Home, 529’s, retirement, etc.

(6)   Which colleges give the most money

(7)   How to leverage colleges against one another

(8)   How to appeal your financial aid package

(9)   Pros and Cons of different borrowing options

Sponsored by

College Topics for the Summer

The Guidance Department will host a breakfast called “College Topics for the Summer”. The purpose of this breakfast is so the counseling staff can give a very brief overview of important tasks associated with the college selection and application process. Although this event is geared for parents of juniors, ALL parents are welcome to attend. Please join us for this informative event. We look forward to seeing you on June 7th at 8:30 AM in the Burlington High School Guidance College and Career Center. We ask that parents RSVP by calling 781-270-1780.