Freshman year is often stressful for many people and it may be more stressful this year with the new building, not only will you be unfamiliar with the layout but so will everyone else. On top of that, you may be confused about classes and activities but that’s normal and expected. There are many things I wish I had been told when starting my freshman year, so here are some of my tips for you.

Getting stressed out about trying to find your classes is common and happens to everyone. When it does, you should ask for help and not be afraid when doing so. Most of the people at North will be willing to help and will enjoy doing so.

When you do find your class, you may know people from previous years or other classes but don’t be afraid to make new friends and expand your social circle. The first week is stressful for everyone and just being a friendly face is something people need during this time.

As your classes start, they may not be what you were expecting and when you hear your teachers explain the class, it may become overwhelming. If this happens you need to take a step back and know that it is not as bad as it seems and that it takes time to adjust.

Along with your classes, there are many sports and activities that you can participate in. At this point fall sports have already started, so you may not be able to join them anymore but many clubs at FHN welcome new members. To find out information about these clubs there may be announcements or flyers hanging around the school and you can always ask about the club’s sponsor and talk to them in person.

Other than joining activities and clubs themselves, you should also go to activities put on by other clubs or go to a fall sports game. Seeing games or going to activities are fun things to do with your friends that take away some of the stress of the school day.

The last thing you should remember is that you are not the only one going through this and others feel the same way or have felt that way before.