Whether you want it or not, the fall season is approaching so fast that it’s time to think about a new school year. When you are starting over at a new school, it’s even harder to think about it.
It doesn’t matter if you are an introvert or an extrovert, we all feel anxious when we are newcomers, so don’t worry so much. Because of my dad’s job, I switched schools three times, so I know what I’m talking about.
I was a shy child that had trouble making new friends and adjusting to a new environment. I’m definitely not complaining. I’m grateful for that experience. If you’re (or maybe your child) starting over at a new school, here are some tried and tested tips to follow.
1. Learn as much as you can about your new school
When you’re going to switch your school, there are a few crucial things you should do. First of all, find out more information about the school. Then, you can try to meet someone at your new school the week before the beginning of the school year.
This way, you can learn more about the school and its students. If you already know your schedule, find out where all of the classrooms are and plan out your route from class to class.
2. Browse through Facebook
If you know exactly what school you will be attending, it will be a great idea to browse through Facebook to find someone who goes to that school too. It’s a quick way to know your classmates before you even start. You can even chat online and make friends, if you are shy by nature.
3. Bring your lunch on your first day of school
If you find it hard to approach new people and ask if you can join them for lunch, be sure to bring your lunch on your first (and, perhaps, second) day of school. This will allow you to avoid the cafeteria line and select a seat at any empty table and allow others to sit with you.
More: 8 Useful Tips for Preparing Your Child for School
4. Adjust expectations
Probably, you had the highest average in Spanish class at your old school, but remember you’re entering an absolutely different group of people now and they may be more advanced in Spanish than you. So don’t hurry to brag about your knowledge don’t tell that you are the best at something.
It’s better to prove your knowledge. Otherwise, they will think you are too self-centered.
5. Smile and be open
Well, the last thing you want to do is to keep your arms crossed and walk around scowling. That’s actually the worst thing to do! If you are starting over at a new school, be ready to smile and try to be more friendly with others.
Your classmates will be definitely curious about you because you are new. Keep in mind that they’ll be looking at you all the time, so you should make a good first impression. Just come off as fun and friendly, not snobby or gloomy.
6. Watch what you say
Everybody likes a person with a great sense of humor so be funny. Don’t say anything bad about others. Don’t make fun of a teacher and don’t criticize other students.
When you start over a new school you don’t know who likes whom and it’s easy to get enemies and nemesis at the first day at your new school. Moreover, make sure you avoid swearing at school. If it’s your child who’s going to start over a new school, remind them how to behave appropriately at school.
More: 6 Crucial Tips for Preparing for Law School
7. Start all over again
If you dislike the image you had at your old school, it’s a great opportunity to wipe the slate clean and start all over again. Become brave and approach people you would not usually have talked to.
They don’t know who you were, so you can be whoever you want. Get rid of your bad habits, combat your shyness, and become one of the most popular girls at school.
Starting over at a new school is never easy. But with these tips it can be not as difficult as you may think.
From personal experience I can say that sometimes it’s awesome to go to a new school. After all, think of how many students are dreaming of changing their schools.
So, are you ready to start over at a new school?