| Everybody has butterflies in their stomach the | | | | transition easier. |
| first day of school. Starting a new school can | | | | Review the supply and book list with your parents |
| make you even more nervous. But there are | | | | to make sure you have the needed items for |
| concrete steps you can take to make your | | | | class and your clothes follow the school's dress |
| transition to a private school easier. | | | | code. Having the "right stuff" means you'll fit in |
| Everyone is nervous | | | | and will have fewer things to worry about. |
| First, you are not alone; everyone is nervous the | | | | Meeting New People |
| first few days of school. The new year means | | | | There is no getting around it, making friends is |
| new beginnings -- starting new courses, learning | | | | part of the challenge of starting a new school. |
| what teachers expect and dealing with changes | | | | While it makes everyone anxious, it also gives |
| among your classmates. Expect to feel anxious | | | | you the opportunity to meet really interesting |
| but don't let those feelings stop you from | | | | people and make lifelong friends. One of the best |
| reaching out to others. Chances are the students | | | | ways to meet people is to get involved. |
| around you are worried too. | | | | Remember the list of clubs and extracurricular |
| Plan ahead | | | | activities, find some that really interest you and |
| Dealing with first day jitters, starts before you | | | | become a member. Is there a study group |
| show up at the door. Be involved in the school | | | | forming in your class? Joining it might help you |
| selection process. Talk to your parents about | | | | make new friends and strengthen your grades. Is |
| what you want in a private school. Look over the | | | | there an upcoming dance or game? Show up and |
| ones they have selected for you. Try to help | | | | you could have a great time. Making friends takes |
| them find a school that is the best fit for you. | | | | time, don't try to rush the process. Be open and |
| Visit the school at least once. Make sure to stop | | | | friendly and you'll succeed. |
| by the parts of campus you are most interested | | | | Need Some Help? |
| in-the gym, the band room, science lab, etc. If | | | | Don't be afraid to talk about your needs, |
| you have a chance, talk to teachers and students | | | | expectations and worries with school counselors, |
| during your visit. Some schools will set you up | | | | advisers or faculty members. Private schools |
| with a student buddy or pen pal; keep in touch | | | | want you to succeed and they have set up |
| with that student. If you are going to a boarding | | | | programs and have individuals ready to help you. |
| school, you might get your roommate's contact | | | | Peer tutors and teachers can help with academics, |
| information. Contact them before school begins. | | | | more personal issues can be discussed with school |
| Look over the course offerings, the school | | | | counselors, while advisers can help steer you in |
| calendar and the list of extracurricular activities so | | | | the best direction as you move toward |
| you'll have an idea of what is going on during your | | | | graduation. Residential advisers often have an |
| first months at private school. Also read the | | | | open door policy. |
| summary that many private schools provide of | | | | Transitioning to a private school may seem scary, |
| what students can expect during a typical day | | | | but by giving it some time and effort you can |
| and week at their school, it can make the | | | | succeed. |