Adjusting to a New High School

Whether you’ve just moved to a different state or changed schools for another reason, starting a new high school can stir up several emotions, and understandably so. You’ve left old friends behind and now have to navigate an unfamiliar environment with fresh faces. A change like this takes time to adapt to. On the bright side, adjusting to a new high school is absolutely possible. 

The thought of making friends and discovering new activities can offer something to look forward to. Explore some tips and tricks to help you settle in and adjust to your new high school in this guide.

What to Expect at a New School

Before we get into the tips for adjusting to a new high school, it’s essential to understand some of the challenges you may encounter as you navigate this change. Instead of seeing them as challenges, you can start approaching them as growth opportunities from which you can learn and become better. Let’s walk through some changes you may need to adapt to:

• A sense of unfamiliarity: Where you’re coming from, everything was familiar — from teachers and peers to the playgrounds and classrooms. It’s normal to have mixed emotions about starting over in an unfamiliar environment. But what if it’s only the start of something beautiful? Thinking of this transition as a fresh start can help ease some of those nerves you may be feeling. Take comfort in the fact that your old school was once new, and you adapted just fine. In the same way, this new school can also become a place you love with familiar people and places. 
• Difference in curriculum and teaching methods: Your previous school may have had a different curriculum and teaching methods compared to the current one. This change requires adapting to new and possibly better learning experiences than the ones you are accustomed to. Intentionally leverage all the support your current school has to offer to help you get settled.
• Mixed feelings: It’s absolutely normal if one minute you feel excitement about the first day, and the next, you feel the nerves hit — you may find yourself thinking about how to find your way around, introduce yourself in front of the class, or even speak to classmates. Talk to your parents or trusted friends about how you’re feeling. Above all, you should take one step at a time, reminding yourself that these mixed feelings usually subside with each passing day. 
• Difference in routines: You should expect routines different from the ones you’re used to. Thankfully, they will only be new for the first few days, weeks, or months. Soon, these routines will become part of your everyday life.

6 Tips for Transitioning to a New High School

Start seeing your new school as an opportunity to experience a different chapter of life with new friends and exciting adventures. Below are some tips to adjust to a new high school. 

1. Stay Present 

It’s normal to want to pick up the phone at every chance you get — it may be a way to hold on to the familiar and stay in touch with old friends at your former school. However, attempting to escape your current reality will not ultimately benefit you. 

Being on your phone all day long may send the wrong message to people who want to have conversations and help you integrate into your new school. The last thing you want is for people to assume that you’re not approachable because you’re constantly scrolling on your phone. Remember, the goal is to make the unfamiliar familiar. Now is the time to be present in your real world. 

2. Take Time to Familiarize Yourself 

Regardless of the size of the school, it’s essential to become familiar with the environment, preferably before the first day. If your school has a map, use it to your advantage. Make a note of the locations of all the places you’ll be required to be — from classrooms and restrooms to the cafeteria and gymnasium. Use the maps until you’re familiar with the different locations. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with your class schedules and general school policies before getting started.

3. Be Open to New Friendships

Making friends takes time and intentionality. It may not happen immediately, and that is OK!  Whether you meet them on your first day or weeks in, the right friends can enhance your high school experience. 

Here are some quick tips you can explore for making friends: 

• Be proactive: Don’t shy away from starting conversations with people you meet. You never know what great friendships can form just because you said hello. Ask questions to get to know the people you meet, and always be yourself.
• Join a club or team: One of the many benefits of joining clubs or teams that interest you at your new school is that it gives you a chance to meet new people with similar interests. 
  
• Use lunch to meet new people: Look for welcoming groups or individuals when it’s time for lunch. Use this time to get to know new people better. 

4. Take Advantage of Counselors and Other Support Systems 

If you’re having trouble adjusting to a new high school or need support in any areas, don’t be afraid to seek help from your teachers and school counselors. They have the resources to help you with difficulties you may encounter as you settle into new routines. 

5. Ask for Help When Needed

No one expects you to understand everything, like the curriculum and teaching methods, on the first day of school. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Adapting to these new changes may require you to step out of your comfort zone and ask for help from teachers and peers. You’ll be amazed at how willing people are to help you adjust.

6. Stay in Touch With Old Friends

While the goal is to make the unfamiliar familiar, you can still keep in touch with your friends from your former high school. Let them know how your new school is and how the transition is going. Sharing a good laugh with them can brighten your day and theirs, helping you stay positive throughout the day.

Begin School With Confidence With Insight Education

Moving to a new school can be an emotional experience. By taking the proper steps, you can adjust to your new high school and make friends. Remember, good things take time. Always maintain a positive outlook and approach each day with an open mind. 

If you need help adapting to a new curriculum, our expert instructors at Insight Education can provide you with one-on-one tutoring and support tailored to your unique needs. We have flexible tutoring lessons available online or in person at our office in Cupertino, California. Contact us to schedule an initial consultation and discover how we can assist you in building a strong academic foundation.