High school is undoubtedly a daunting, yet important, part of a person’s life.  Whether you are a nervous prospective freshman or stressed-out junior, to perhaps provide you with some insight I have compiled a list of the truths and myths of high school.  (WARNING: This is an unofficial list that may not be used against teachers, parents or people of authority.)

Myth: In high school your social life will cease to exist.  Freshman year I went out with my friends every Friday.  Throughout the rest of high school my social life dwindled slightly (or a bit more than slightly), but the key is to manage your time, prioritize and compartmentalize.

Truth: First impressions do matter.  Put your best foot forward in absolutely everything you do, and try your best from the get-go.

Myth: Your academic future depends on how well you do on Advanced Placement tests. Consider AP tests as a way to show people (and colleges) how much you have learned.  The best advice I can give is to religiously study the Crash Course book for all of your APs.  (Please do not hunt me down if the book falls short of your expectations.)

Truth: The beginning of each semester, not the night before a final exam, is the time to really work your butt off to bump up a borderline grade.  If you study hard at the start, I guarantee that you will be significantly less stressed during finals.

Myth: You must take “x” AP/honors classes, do “x” extracurricular activities, have “x” SAT/ACT score and have “x” GPA in order to get into “x” university or be successful. Fill in the blanks as you please, but there is no magic formula.  Do not let people pressure you into taking a class you know would be too hard for you, and certainly do not let others scare you when talking about numbers and grades.  Stop worrying about what everyone else is doing, and focus on yourself.

Truth: You are able to find yourself in high school.  Discover your passion, whether it is a sport, an art, music or even journalism.  Once you find your niche, you can adhere to what you truly love to do and meet people who share your interests.  This will make your high school experience worthwhile.