3 Simple Shifts That Make High School Easier (and More Enjoyable)

A thoughtful guide for students walking into high school for the first time

The jump to 9th grade is more than just a change in buildings or schedules — it’s a change in identity.

You go from being the oldest at middle school to the youngest at high school. You’re expected to manage yourself more, speak up more, and adjust to teachers who don’t yet know how you learn best. And while it can be exciting, it’s completely normal to feel nervous or unsure about what to expect.

That’s why now is the perfect time to plant small habits that make a big difference later. These three simple strategies will help you feel more settled, more prepared, and a little less like you’re figuring everything out on your own.

1. Make a Conscious Effort to Sit with Someone New at Lunch—Just for One Week

Let’s be honest: lunch can feel intimidating in a new school. It’s not always easy to know where to sit, who to talk to, or how to avoid feeling like the odd one out.

But here’s something most people don’t say out loud—almost everyone is hoping someone will talk to them first. So instead of waiting for the “right” group to magically appear, make a quiet commitment to yourself:

Sit next to someone new every day for the first five days.

Don’t worry about whether you click instantly. Just show up with openness.

If the thought of starting a conversation makes your stomach turn, keep three simple questions in your back pocket:

• “What’s one class that surprised you so far?”

• “Do you know if we’re allowed to eat outside?”

• “What do you think of the lunch food so far—honest review?”

Most people are relieved to have someone break the ice. And even if it doesn’t lead to an instant friendship, you’ll build confidence in your ability to reach out—and make someone else feel seen in the process.

2. Take the First Few Assignments Seriously—Even If It Feels Like a Throwaway

A lot of teachers start the year with something easy. Maybe it’s a “get to know you” sheet or a short quiz on summer reading. And because it doesn’t feel very intense, most students don’t give it much effort.

But here’s the thing—those first few assignments usually count. They also sets the tone for how your teacher sees you. That doesn’t mean you need to be perfect. But putting in real effort, right from the start, helps you in two big ways:

First, it boosts your grade average early on. That matters more than you think once more difficult work begins. Second, it tells your teacher you care—about your work, about your learning, and about showing up well.

So instead of aiming to “just get it done,” try aiming for your personal best. Ask about bonus points. Double-check your work. Give yourself a little extra time. That small bit of extra energy now can save you a lot of stress later.

3. Pay Attention to How Each Teacher Teaches—And Adjust Accordingly

One of the fastest ways to feel overwhelmed in high school is to assume every teacher works the same way.

They don’t.

Some rely heavily on lectures and slides. Others expect you to speak up during discussions. Some give lots of quizzes. Others build everything around group projects. The sooner you notice these patterns, the more confident you’ll feel navigating their classes.

If you realize a teacher uses slides every class, try reviewing them the night before—it’ll make the lecture easier to follow. If a teacher is project-focused, break down each assignment into smaller parts and give yourself mini-deadlines ahead of the real deadlines. And if there are surprise quizzes, make a habit of skimming your notes every few days even when no test is coming up.

You don’t have to change who you are - you just need to learn how to meet each teacher where they are. That kind of adaptability is what makes high school feel more manageable.

A Final Thought: Be Kind, Even If You’re Not Sure You’ll Be Friends

Not everyone in high school will become your friend. That’s okay. But being friendly —smiling in the hallway, making room at the table, saying “hi” in class—goes a long way. One year is a long time. And sometimes the person you least expect becomes someone really important in your life.

So give people a chance. Be open to differences. And remember, everyone is just trying to find their way—just like you are.

If you’re heading into 9th grade, give yourself some grace.You don’t have to figure it all out in the first week. You just need to start with small, thoughtful steps. And these three? They’ll help you feel a little more steady as you do.