As the 2023-2024 school year is now well underway, some students are still trying to manage the transition from summer to school. Many miss the relaxed, carefree summer days when they could sleep late in the mornings and have their evenings to themselves. But the busy school schedule can be just as fun, once you get into the right routine.

The start of the new school year can be exhilarating, but it’s also fast-paced and stressful. With the academic rigors of tests, projects, and constant grades, along with the social demands of friends, sports teams, and other activities, the beginning of school is filled with emotion. But there are ways to contain this bewildered feeling. Having healthy and productive study habits, getting a good night’s sleep, and focusing on the positives are just a few ways that students can survive and thrive.

Sophomore Addie Phelan’s study tip is to “find a place that is busy, but not loud. This is perfect for me to study for a long time and actually understand the information.” She also stated that “music also really helps me focus”. Finding what works best for each student is more than half the battle when it comes to studying. 

For some students, this means wrapping up studying early so they can go to bed at a decent time. Junior Jane Betti tries to follow this rule: “I try to be productive and get my homework done after crew practice so I don’t have to stay up too late.” Many upperclassmen have learned the importance of sleep and its effect on students’ health, mood, and overall happiness.

Freshmen can struggle the most with the back-to-school transition as they are new to the high school’s demanding schedule. Ninth grader Maggie Flynn says the HHS schedule makes it “a lot harder to stay upbeat and energetic with the limited amount of sleep and time for yourself.” But on a more positive note, she said “Although I miss summer, my soccer team’s pasta parties are a lot of fun”. Having outlets for things like sports, activities, and time with friends, or even just time for yourself, is vital to stay afloat during this difficult transition.

The transition from summer to school can be challenging for everyone. The key is to develop consistent, healthy habits that help students ease into their new normal. Before we know it, it will be Thanksgiving break!