Back-to-School Nerves

Author: Anne Stirling

It’s that time of the year again: BACK-TO-SCHOOL! Many of you may be dreading the fact that summer is over, but don’t worry, you’re only four months away from your next school break. Let’s go over some important back-to-school tips!

Are you nervous?

For those of you beginning your first year of middle school, high school or postsecondary: it’s normal to be nervous. You don’t know what to expect, who you’re going to meet or whether you’re going to fit in. Luckily, there are ways to cope with that nervousness.

Remind yourself that it WILL take time for you to adjust to this new change, whether it’s starting to attend a new school or just moving onto the next grade. Change is the only constant in life and our strength begins the moment we are brave enough to brace its journey.

1. Familiarize yourself with the building

Visit your new school before the first day to get a feel for the building and see where your classes are. This will make settling into your new routine easier, especially once you become familiar with your school’s layout.

2. Customize your school supplies

A great way to keep yourself busy in the last couple weeks of summer is decorating your school supplies after buying new ones or reusing old ones from last year. This is a fun activity that will calm your nerves while personalizing your school items. I’ve included some cute ideas from Pinterest you can consider (the links under “sources”). Also, if you’re worried nobody will approach or talk to you, it will definitely get them to notice you!

3. Check out the syllabus for your first semester classes

Academic anxiety is normal, however, preparing yourself for what is coming your way this year will keep you motivated. If you google a specific course, i.e. “Math 10-1 syllabus”, you will have access to the curriculum and some practice resources. Having these resources at the tips of your fingers are great for when you need extra help throughout the semester. Or, you can start studying before school and get ahead!

4. Be prepared

Make sure your school bag has everything you’ll need, so you don’t procrastinate getting ready for school and stressing over it. This includes having all your binders, notebooks, and a packed pencil case (with pencils, pens, markers, highlighters, sticky notes, rulers, and a calculator). If you have to wear a uniform, make sure it is washed and ready to wear for the first day. Otherwise, make sure you have an outfit ready and clean, so you don’t have to stress out on the first morning.

The only thing that should be prepared the night before should be a healthy lunch. I’ve included some lunch ideas in the appendix list for your own consideration.

5. Sleep well the night before

This is extremely difficult to do when you’ve been staying up late and waking up late throughout the summer. Starting a new sleep routine the week before is a good idea.

Try this routine and see if it works:

*Hint: I recommend using an alarm clock to wake up at these times*

1 week before: Start getting ready to sleep around 10 pm and wake up at 10 am
6 days before: Sleep at 10 pm and wake up at 9:30 am
5 days before: Sleep at 9:30 pm and wake up at 9:30 am
4 days before: Sleep at 9 pm and wake up at 9 am
3 days before: Sleep at 9 pm and wake up at 8:30 am
2 days before: Sleep at 9 pm and wake up at 8 am
1 day before: Sleep at 9 pm and wake up at 7:30 am

*This is just a general schedule that could make adjusting to waking up earlier easier.

6. Stay positive

Tell yourself that you’re going to rock this school year in every shape, way, and form! You’re going to make great friends who will support, cherish, and value you. You are destined to excel academically through your dedicated efforts.

Believe in yourself and prepare yourself. This will not be an easy journey, but you are strong enough to overcome any obstacle you encounter and you will grow to become the best version of yourself.

Repeating positive thoughts like this will facilitate entering your new year of school.

Sources:

DIY Ideas for school supplies:

Lunch Ideas:

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