High school can be a very exciting time in your life - a chance to meet new friends, grasp new things in the classroom, learn to become more independent, and grow in your faith. We want you to make the most of your years at Living Word Lutheran High School, so here are 10 things to do to make the most of your high school experience.
Know Who & Whose You Are
As much as you are staying in touch with yourself and your goals as you go through high school, you also want to keep a close grasp on what Jesus Christ wants for your life. As you begin to know Him, you can get a better grasp of whom you are. Quite simply, He wants us to follow Him. He chose you and wants you to keep His way in mind as you navigate through this new path in your life.
Have a Sense of Direction
Of course, high school and college are traditionally times where you explore the possibilities and grow into the adult you will one day become. It is good to keep a fair amount of openness in the way you approach opportunities and experiences of high school; however, one way to get the most out of this exciting time of new adventures is to stay focused about where you are headed. If you had always been called to the ministry, perhaps you will join the Spiritual Life Team. If you have always had an interest in medicine, perhaps you will strive for AP science classes. Having a general sense of where you are headed keeps you on track and connected to your goals and values, even as you explore. If you need help, we have amazing counselors dedicated to helping you find the right path.
Be Yourself
This might seem cliché, but there is a reason why you hear it so much — it is important! You will get the most satisfaction out of high school if you focus on the people and activities that feel right to you, regardless of what seems cool or acceptable at that moment. Remember, though, that none of these definitions for “cool” forms a comprehensive depiction of who a person is. It is like that old “tip of the iceberg” analogy—what you see is only the surface of a person’s personality. There is so much more underneath. Try to avoid comparing yourself to others. You know who you are, and you had better believe that you are great, because it is true! Whatever happens, be the best version of yourself. It is so much easier than trying to be someone you do not like.
Take a Class that Develops Your Hobbies
Do not be afraid to make a class schedule that mixes business with a little bit of fun. If you are a singer, you could choose a choir class. If you enjoy computers, try one of our “tech” classes. If you are a great artist, take a drawing elective! This can be a great opportunity to discover a new love for something, or give yourself a chance to relax during the day doing something you enjoy.
Get Involved
Whether it is sports, art, music, or debate, languages, or even math…get involved in something! We offer a wide range of activities for students to get involved in at school and we want you to take advantage of that! The nice part is if you want to be in the fall play and run on the cross-country team - you can do that. Studies show better emotional and mental health outcomes for people who feel involved and needed. It makes us feel connected when we are part of a group, a club, a team, or other organized activities. And, do not forget, the people you meet and grow with over the next four years may be your friends for the rest of your life.
Build Relationships
We were created to have relationships with those around us - that is just how God designed us. So, use this time as a chance to form strong bonds with those around you. Meet new people in your math class, find a new friend on the football team, and try to eat lunch with someone new every week. You cannot get to know a person unless you start talking to them. Sometimes a stranger is a friend you just have not met yet.
Do Your Job
Your job as a student - other than being a kind person, and a good Christian - is to succeed academically. Plain and simple. Your full-time job is being a student (think about it – you are at school 8 hours a day for 5 days a week.) If you are taking too much time for gaming, watching Netflix, getting distracted with social media or friend-group drama, it might be time to remember something. Right now, academics are your job. You can make the most of your high school experience, and set the foundation for a good GPA in the long term, by getting academic assignments and studying out of the way each day as a first priority.
Ask for Help
It is amazing how people will open up, so do not hesitate to ask a teacher, parent, coach, or an older student for some tips. Even a brief question can lead to further discussion, and you might make a connection or form a friendship you would not have otherwise. Recognize that some things just have to be learned the hard way — through experience. Ask for advice, think about what other people have to say, and ultimately do your best to make the decisions that are right for you.
Take Care of Yourself
We all joke around a lot about the poor sleep habits of teens; however, the reality is that you have to find a way to get enough sleep. Lack of sleep leads to poor concentration, and poor concentration leads to poor decisions and poor grades. You are the one who pays the price if you do not sleep enough. Force yourself to turn off the gadgets and go to bed early enough to get a good night's sleep. Eat healthy to give your body the nutrients it needs to succeed. Yes, the occasional Snickers bar will not kill you, but make sure you mix in an apple once and awhile.
Soak in Your High School Experience
You may not believe it now, but high school is gone before you even know it. You may already be looking forward to college or joining the workforce to finally be an “adult,” but right now, enjoy these moments. You will meet some amazing people from your peers, teachers, coaches, and directors. You will have memories that last a lifetime, so do not rush through it. As Tatum Roth, LWLHS Class of 2014, said, “Soak up every second of it because there will come a day you wish you could go back and relive this time of your life.”
Your years of high school will be some of the most memorable times of your life. Use these 10 tips to make the most of it, and remember to have fun! God has your back.
Interested in learning more about Living Word Lutheran? Schedule a visit to the school and get started on your journey.