Appleton North sure is a big place — and very different from middle school! It’s easy to feel overwhelmed your freshman year in the busy hallways, noisy commons, and harder classes. Here are some tips to help you survive your freshman year and set yourself up for social and academic success for the next four years.
 Participate in as many school activities as possible. Spirit weeks, pep rallies, football games, and dances are some of the most fun events you’ll experience at North. But if you want to fully experience them, you have to lean into it. Plan a fun costume with your friends for a dress-up day, cheer extra loud during an assembly, and dance your heart out at homecoming. If you try to have fun, you probably will! Stay focused on your schoolwork and develop a routine.

Although you will likely be taking your easiest classes freshman year, the habits you create now will set up your mindset and routine for the next four years. So pay attention in class, get your work done on time, eat healthy, stay hydrated, and get enough sleep. You’ll thank yourself when you’re taking more advanced classes in the future! Make new connections and friendships. Even if you come into high school with friends from middle school, there’s value in branching out. Don’t abandon your old friends, but Appleton North is a big school. Chances are you’ll click with some new people and create even more lasting friendships. Participate in extracurriculars that interest you. Maybe it’s a sport you did in middle school, or maybe you love art — North has extracurriculars and clubs to fit anyone’s interests. Keep an eye out for posters in the hallways advertising fun events and club meetings. Clubs can also be a good way to find those new friends!
 Starting high school is scary, but with the right people, activities, and routine, it really isn’t so bad. Keep these tips in mind and good luck class of 2028!