High School

High school can be a notoriously difficult time of your life. But it doesn't have to be so difficult if you keep an open mind and a sense of perspective. Here are six easy tips that can be helpful in navigating through high school.

1. Even if you don't want to go to college, act like you do. Many freshmen start high school with a poor academic record trailing behind them and no sense of time. It feels like high school is going to last forever, but in truth, it only lasts four short years, and they will go flying by. Even if you are sure that you won't ever go to college, pretend that you do. Take all the college prep coursework that you can handle. You might feel differently about college in a few years, and it's good to keep your options open.

2. Be open to making new friends. First impressions can be hard to shake, but don't write off people just because they didn't seem like potential friends right away. Some times the best friendships are forged with people you didn't even like the first time around.

3. Try at least one new extracurricular activity, even if it's not your thing. Even if you are not the type to seek out extracurricular activities, decide to try at least one new thing. If it's not your thing, you can always try something else.

4. Identify one instructor that you think you can talk to. While finding a true mentor can be difficult, there's a good chance that you might connect with at least one of your teachers, especially if you go to a large high school.

5. Be open-minded about your electives. Electives are often the bright spot in your high school curriculum. You may be tempted to choose the "hot" elective that everyone is vying for. Avoid this and choose something that genuinely interests you.