Top Five Tips from Teachers

OLSH teachers share their best advice for a successful school year

Each year, OLSH invites incoming freshman students to participate in a high school readiness course taught by OLSH teachers. The teachers review study skills, organization, and other tips for a successful transition to high school.

1. Get involved

Try something new! Whether it’s sports, forensics, musical theatre, chorus, or one of our other activities, you’re bound to find something you enjoy. You may even discover a hidden talent or a passion for something unexpected!

2. Use the OWL for writing or projects

The OLSH Writing and Learning Center can help you take your writing to the next level. Tutors in the OWL will work with you to perfect your projects to get the best grade possible and to make sure you’re prepared with the best practices for your next big assignment.

3. Talk and get to know each other

“Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver and the other’s gold.” Now is your chance to get to know new people. Hold onto the friends you already have, but expand your friend group by learning more about your new classmates. The friendships you make in high school will last you a lifetime.

4. Don't be afraid to ask for help from your teachers

Your teachers want to see you succeed. They believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. Take advantage of their expertise by asking questions when you don’t understand something or go to them individually for extra help. You will never be judged for seeking help, and your teachers like to see you putting in the extra effort.

5. Stay organized all year - use an agenda!

Don’t lose track of your assignments. Keeping an agenda can help you to stay on task and remember what tests and homework you have coming up. Don’t just rely on your memory! Studies have shown that writing something by hand forces your brain to process the information more deeply than just hearing it – thereby improving your memory.

There you have it! Follow our teachers’ advice and you’re sure to succeed in high school. What tips would you share with our students going into a new school year?

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