Why does your alarm for school sound like nails on a chalkboard? Why is your bed so much more comfortable all of a sudden? Why is your stomach swirling and tying in knots? 

School should not be as nerve-racking as it’s become over the years. Keeping up with social status, graduation requirements, grades, and all your different schedules like clubs, work, and school your schedule is already stressful, but for new students, that stress can look a lot different. Making friends and finding your way around can be overwhelming in the first few weeks. 

Most students come back to school on the first day and run to greet their friends, asking them which teachers they got for their classes and what lunch they are in. For new students, this can make you feel overwhelmed or isolated. 

If you are a new student, you might feel like you are alone, but remember, you aren’t. 

According to Heather Barrett, Stroudsburg High School’s guidance secretary, Stroudsburg Senior High, this year, has sixty-one new students in the district and 421 new sophomores.

New sophomore, Elijah Silva, 10, says, “This is what I expected the high school to be like but I didn’t realize it was this big. I got lost a few times but the teachers and other students were helpful and pointed out where I needed to be going.” 

For new students, getting lost is unavoidable, but there are plenty of helpful teachers and students around the school who are ready and willing to help. Asking for help when you need it is an important part of making a smooth transition. Guidance counselors, teachers, and students are willing to help as long as you are willing to ask for it. 

Getting involved is a huge part of starting the right path for you. Stroudsburg offers dozens of diverse clubs, activities, and sports from ski club to esports. There is a place for everyone. 

Rebecca Dishong, 11, also new to the district, says, “I joined FBLA and the Interact Club. I think other students should be interested in joining clubs because it’s a great way to make new friends.” 

For more information about clubs and activities, check out the hallway bulletin boards with club updates and announcements. Or, check out our The Mountaineer Bulletin Board, and see the online club postings (bulletin board).

Remember, you are not alone.