Debunking High School Myths
BY BELLE HU '22
For me, high school seemed to be a completely different realm, one I had glimpsed from a distance but would never enter or get used to. The teachers seemed austere, and the students unapproachable. The clubs and sports seemed exclusive and unwelcoming. As for my classes, let’s just say I was quaking in my beat-up sneakers before I even entered the classroom for the first time.
If you are having these worries, I want to say “it gets better.” But I won’t because that wasn’t so reassuring for me. However, most high school-related anxieties actually stem from misconceptions of it. Once we dive in and open our eyes to new opportunities, these worries will seem miniscule. You’ll see these rumors for what they truly are: mere myths that, by the end of this article, we will have thoroughly debunked.
The Senior Staircase
Despite its name, the senior staircase is open to all. Sure, seniors often hang out around this stairwell before first period, but they don’t stand guard, preventing underclassmen from getting through. From first period onwards, this stairwell is overwhelmed by students of all ages rushing to get to their next class. Personally, this is my favorite staircase on campus because it looks onto a courtyard, where you can briefly see the blue sky or observe the weather. Plus, who doesn’t love a spiral staircase?
Scary Upperclassmen
As for these “formidable” upperclassmen, they are actually some of the most welcoming people in the entire school. If you decide to join a club, the upperclassmen will greet you with open arms and guidance. In fact, in any activity, they will become the older sibling you wished you had, one who will always be there for you when you feel down.
Honors Classes
Honors classes at AB are really no different than middle school classes in terms of structure. Of course, you can take as many as you can handle, but there is no expectation that you take all five. Struggling is actually very acceptable in honors classes, as the more in-depth curriculum lends itself to harder material. Try treating it like an ordinary class with no status—this will help you focus on the content. The school has made an effort to reduce homework on the weekends, holidays, and vacations, so for all you incoming honors students out there: don’t worry! The school is aware of the classes’ workload and is prioritizing us students’ mental health.
Midterm Assessments
From my sophomore year and onwards, mid-term exams were abolished and replaced mostly with ‘cumulative’ tests. These are mostly low-stakes and will NOT make up 10% of your grade. Some teachers may decide to make them slightly more than your usual unit tests; some teachers will weigh them equally as unit tests; and some will decide not to give a cumulative assessment at all! If you are nervous about taking these assessments, just know that there is a silver lining: since cumulative assessments cover a broader range of material, they logically cannot go in depth for every single unit covered. You can now focus on overarching themes instead of memorizing every itty-bitty detail.
Having to Join Fifty Different Extracurriculars
As for extracurricular activities, there is a common misconception that one must participate in fifty different clubs to attend college. My advice to you is to just find one or two that you are interested in. Many students start by exploring a few different clubs to find which ones best fit their interests and schedule. Additionally, that the number of clubs you participate in isn’t what matters; it’s the quality of your contribution there. However, if you still feel like joining 50 clubs and can manage it, then by all means, go for it! But definitely do not feel pressured to do so.
Freshman Swim
For me, freshman swim started after April break, and I remember hoping and praying that April break would somehow last a month longer. Believe it or not, I actually love to swim. Just not in front of my classmates. No thanks. The first class was definitely awkward, at least for me. However, later on, the class started to blend into my schedule instead of standing out as a huge roadblock. The P.E. teachers are very understanding, and you can be excused from swimming. Of course, I would advise against manipulating the system because the P.E. teachers can decide to crack down on everyone, and no one wants that :0.
At a first glance, these myths present tall barriers that seem to threaten many freshmen’s mental stability, and it’s impossible not to be nervous on the first day of something new. Hopefully, however, this article helped you eliminate a couple concerns. Now go out there and show these myths who’s boss!
If you are having these worries, I want to say “it gets better.” But I won’t because that wasn’t so reassuring for me. However, most high school-related anxieties actually stem from misconceptions of it. Once we dive in and open our eyes to new opportunities, these worries will seem miniscule. You’ll see these rumors for what they truly are: mere myths that, by the end of this article, we will have thoroughly debunked.
The Senior Staircase
Despite its name, the senior staircase is open to all. Sure, seniors often hang out around this stairwell before first period, but they don’t stand guard, preventing underclassmen from getting through. From first period onwards, this stairwell is overwhelmed by students of all ages rushing to get to their next class. Personally, this is my favorite staircase on campus because it looks onto a courtyard, where you can briefly see the blue sky or observe the weather. Plus, who doesn’t love a spiral staircase?
Scary Upperclassmen
As for these “formidable” upperclassmen, they are actually some of the most welcoming people in the entire school. If you decide to join a club, the upperclassmen will greet you with open arms and guidance. In fact, in any activity, they will become the older sibling you wished you had, one who will always be there for you when you feel down.
Honors Classes
Honors classes at AB are really no different than middle school classes in terms of structure. Of course, you can take as many as you can handle, but there is no expectation that you take all five. Struggling is actually very acceptable in honors classes, as the more in-depth curriculum lends itself to harder material. Try treating it like an ordinary class with no status—this will help you focus on the content. The school has made an effort to reduce homework on the weekends, holidays, and vacations, so for all you incoming honors students out there: don’t worry! The school is aware of the classes’ workload and is prioritizing us students’ mental health.
Midterm Assessments
From my sophomore year and onwards, mid-term exams were abolished and replaced mostly with ‘cumulative’ tests. These are mostly low-stakes and will NOT make up 10% of your grade. Some teachers may decide to make them slightly more than your usual unit tests; some teachers will weigh them equally as unit tests; and some will decide not to give a cumulative assessment at all! If you are nervous about taking these assessments, just know that there is a silver lining: since cumulative assessments cover a broader range of material, they logically cannot go in depth for every single unit covered. You can now focus on overarching themes instead of memorizing every itty-bitty detail.
Having to Join Fifty Different Extracurriculars
As for extracurricular activities, there is a common misconception that one must participate in fifty different clubs to attend college. My advice to you is to just find one or two that you are interested in. Many students start by exploring a few different clubs to find which ones best fit their interests and schedule. Additionally, that the number of clubs you participate in isn’t what matters; it’s the quality of your contribution there. However, if you still feel like joining 50 clubs and can manage it, then by all means, go for it! But definitely do not feel pressured to do so.
Freshman Swim
For me, freshman swim started after April break, and I remember hoping and praying that April break would somehow last a month longer. Believe it or not, I actually love to swim. Just not in front of my classmates. No thanks. The first class was definitely awkward, at least for me. However, later on, the class started to blend into my schedule instead of standing out as a huge roadblock. The P.E. teachers are very understanding, and you can be excused from swimming. Of course, I would advise against manipulating the system because the P.E. teachers can decide to crack down on everyone, and no one wants that :0.
At a first glance, these myths present tall barriers that seem to threaten many freshmen’s mental stability, and it’s impossible not to be nervous on the first day of something new. Hopefully, however, this article helped you eliminate a couple concerns. Now go out there and show these myths who’s boss!