A nervous buzz floats through the air. Young students look around in dread, lost in a sea of older kids and have no idea where to go. This is their first day of high school and they feel caught in a world of anxiety about what is to come that day and for the next four years.

You don’t want this to be you, so here’s so helpful tips for surviving not just your freshman year but all of high school.

1. Know Your Schedule and Where Your Classes Are

Starting off basic, but the first day of school can be a stressful time for freshmen as you are entering a much bigger building with way more people. MHS hosts a back to school night where students can people up their schedule and tour the school. This is a good opportunity for freshmen to map out their classes and be prepared for the first day. Knowing where you are going can relieve a little bit of pressure with all of the first day jitters.

2. Don’t Be a Slacker

Procrastination is a very real thing that many students go through, but if you try to not fall into it early you are better off. Stay on top of assignments from the start of the year so you don’t get swept away in a landslide of missing work. Playing catch up is not fun.

3. Build Relationships

You are stuck with your peers for the next four years so you might as well make the most of it. The people around you are what will get you through the tough times and networking can help you achieve major things even after high school; however, this is not just limited to your classmates. Building an association with your teachers is crucial to surviving high school. They are always looking out for you and might even be more lenient when it comes to late assignments and such if you just have a conversation.

4. Don’t Think You Are Too Cool

Right now, high school might seem like this long, daunting four years but it doesn’t last forever and in the end you’ll want to look back to happy memories. There are so many opportunities to build these memories as long as you actually take them. Go to the Friday night football games, the homecoming dances, and the tons of other events. They may seem lame or not worth it beforehand but you’ll end up having a good time and making lasting memories.