IT’S GOOD TO BE BACK!

Summer is up and long vacation has ended. It’s “back to school” again. Even if you’re an anxious freshman or confident senior, heading back to school is a truth that everyone must face, for there will be new things again. New teachers, new rooms, new subjects, new school things and many other new experiences. Here are some tips to help you on getting back to school.

FIRST TIME – First day on the school can always be crazy especially for those freshmen. You will see them running in different ways, looking for their rooms. How can you fight first-day chaos? If you're headed to a new school, try to arrange a visit before classes begin. Explore any areas that are of particular interest, such as the gymnasium, library, or science labs. Some schools offer maps. Get one and give it a read before school starts — then keep it in your backpack until you're familiar with your new surroundings.

GET READY - Pack your backpack the night before school starts so you're not scrambling around at the last minute looking for what you need. Wear what makes you feel good, whether it's a brand-new outfit or a comfy old sweater. If you plan to wear a new pair of shoes, break them in a few days beforehand or your feet may scream for relief long before last period.

EAT - Students are more attentive and perform better when they have a good meal. If your class is early, don’t forget to have breakfast, it’s the most important meal of the day.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP - Studies show that teens need at least 8½ hours of sleep each night to feel rested. Sleep deprivation can lead students to fall asleep in class (embarrassing if you're caught!) and can also make it hard to concentrate. It can be more productive to get the sleep you need than it is to stay up late cramming: A recent study found that students who got adequate sleep before a math test were nearly three times more likely to figure out the problem than those who stayed up all night.

TAKE ADVANTAGE - Take advantage of those times during the school day when you're not in class: Review notes, go to the library or computer lab, get a head-start on your homework, or research that big term paper. You'll be thankful later while you're at the mall or a concert and your classmates are stuck at home cramming! When you do more on school you’ll have less time doing those things at home

BE FRIENLY -  School is a time to make friends and try new things. One of the best ways to make friends and learn your way around is by joining school clubs, sports teams, and activities. Even if you can't kick a 30-yard field goal or sing a solo, getting involved in other ways — going to a school play, helping with a bake sale, or cheering on friends at a swim meet — can help you feel like a part of things.

Don’t forget to just enjoy everyday at school. You won’t be there for life. Treasure every moment.