by Rosie Hutchison

Dear Freshmen,

How many times have you gone to the wrong class this year? Thought you were in Donnelly when really you were strutting through the second floor of M&A? Couldn’t find the bathroom? Called your teacher Dad (even though she’s a woman)? Been there, done that. Now that I’m a super-smart, impressive, pretty, funny, talented, basically perfect senior, I have discovered some STA secrets to success. From one Star to another, here are some tips to get you through freshman year fairly unscathed.

1. Be Not Afraid – Though your classmates and teachers are brand new to you, don’t be afraid to ask questions or speak out in class. Believe it or not, people are actually nice here so ask away.

2. Eat A Lot – Seriously, no judgement from this end. I’m the queen of mooching a second lunch from my friends in the cafeteria. People will think you’re weird if you turn down a free cupcake, cookie, or heaven forbid a bite of Chipotle. And if you’re a “healthy eater,” cookies are good for you. I don’t know why, they just are. Also, there are obviously no boys here so DO WHATEVER YOU WANT.

3. Get Involved – Sports, clubs, and other organizations are fabulous ways to meet new girls with shared interests. By this time fall sports are well underway and club sign-ups are over, but just in case you are on the fence about playing a winter sport (shout out to all my fellow swimmers out there) DO IT. I cherish the bonds I’ve made these past three years with my classmates, and a I’ve gotten to know a lot of them through activities outside of the classroom. STA is known for much more than our superb academics, so get out there and show us your stuff.

4. Know Your Teachers – These fine men and women will mold your young, bright minds for the next four years. They work here to help you learn and grow as a student, and aside from all the homework they give they’re pretty much awesome. Mr. Bertalott is ALWAYS making sure girls are in proper uniform. Ms. Prentiss and Ms. Dolan are hostesses to fun free periods. You can count on Mr. Sanem to interpret your weird dreams, and if you love your dog, go chat with Ms. Wallerstedt. Ms. Berardi isn’t a bad time either, and I guess Ms. Bone is pretty cool too. Actually who am I kidding, she’s the coolest lady I’ve ever met! Sorry mom…

5. Use Frees Wisely – I know it’s tempting to spend entire free periods decorating your planner or shopping for dresses, but the stellar student inside me tells you please no. I have a slight (okay, maybe major) issue with procrastination, but using my free periods for homework or studying helps immensely. As high school goes on, your life will probably become busier each year, so time management skills are vital to your survival. My favorite place to spend frees is the library. OMG I’m obsessed with it (ps I’m not being sarcastic) and I always have a great time listening to Pandora and knocking out math assignments. I promise you will prevent late nights and meltdowns by using frees to get stuff done. BE PRODUCTIVE! BE BE PRODUCTIVE!

6. Be Yourself – This is the most important thing I have to tell you. I took a break from writing this to watch the video to Taylor Swift’s “You Belong With Me” and I cried. See, I just told everyone that and I have no shame because that’s who I am and I’m darn proud of it! STA is an environment where we as young women are encouraged to discover who we are with no judgement. If you’re a science nerd, I salute you. If you wear combat boots, rock on. If you listen to sappy music, join the club. If you’re still a Twilight fan, move on girlfriend Peeta is the new Edward (just kidding). The point is, you are accepted here and if you be yourself you will find your niche.