Transition to High School

Starting high school is an overwhelming experience for any teenager. Whether you’re coming from a middle school (grades six through eight) or a junior high school (grades seven through nine), you’ll find that many aspects of high school differ from your old school environment.

Navigating a new school, making new friends in unfamiliar classes and getting to know new teachers can feel overwhelming. High school teachers usually have higher academic expectations than middle and junior-high school teachers. They want to help you get into college, and in return, they expect you to work hard and improve your skills.

On top of all this, peer pressure to do drugs, drink alcohol and have sex often increases in high school.

Where to Get Help

Although these are all big changes, they’re nothing you can’t handle. Many resources are available to help you deal with any problem.

Your teachers, counselors, doctors, parents and friends can help you transition into this new stage. If you don’t feel comfortable talking with any of these people, you can also reach out anonymously to the National Crisis Hotline by texting or calling 988.

Your high school years are a time of exciting changes. You’ll gain new freedoms, have new experiences and enjoy new responsibilities. Many high school students get their driver’s license when they turn 16, giving them new independence and responsibility.

Other changes may be less fun. To fully enjoy your high school experience, try to address the aspects of your life with which you’re not happy.

• If you’re feeling pressure to do something you feel is wrong, talk to a friend, parent or counselor to find a solution.
• If you’re struggling academically, find a tutor or someone to help you improve.
• If you feel isolated socially, join a school club or group to make new friends.

One Student’s Story

Virginia, a high school alum, recalls how she solved her first problem as an incoming ninth grader.

“When I got my schedule, I was horrified to find that I was placed in a drama class instead of my favorite class: chorus. Tentatively, I wrote to my counselor, who told me to email the head of the arts department. In fear of my academic future, I cautiously wrote the email.

“She wrote me back – but was unable to help me. Instead, I was directed to the Schedule Creator. I hoped that this woman was the one who could make all my scheduling dreams come true. I had to present my case in a clear, concise and convincing way.

“After not hearing back from her for a while, she finally emailed me – and said she agreed! My schedule was finally changed.

“The moral of this epic journey: Don’t be afraid to problem-solve, and don’t believe all of the tales you hear about teachers. Let them make their own first impressions. They usually want to help.”

Last Reviewed: October 2018