Steps to Success: Tips for Our Newest Cardinals

Written by: Prashitha Kanipaku (‘29)

Welcome to Lawrence High School, Class of 2029! Starting high school is a big step, and while it can feel a little overwhelming at first, you’ve got this and we are ALL here to help you succeed. Here are some tips to keep you on track:

• Get organized! Keep a planner, set reminders, and stay on top of assignments so nothing sneaks up on you.

• Do your best work! Whether it’s homework or classwork, quality counts.

• Show up! Every day in class matters, so avoid absences when you can.

• Build relationships! Get to know your teachers, staff, and classmates because they are all here to support you.

• Ask for help! Use resources like Destinations, the Cardinal Nest, and the Homework Center when you need extra support.

• Take ownership! Your learning is in your hands, and the effort you put in now makes a huge difference.

• Remember: grades count! Colleges, careers and future opportunities start here.

• Get involved! Join sports, clubs, and community service projects—you’ll discover new passions and make new friends.

• Step out of your comfort zone! Try new things, even if they feel a little scary at first.

• Challenge yourself! Push past “good enough” and see what you can really achieve.

• Be kind! Treat others—and yourself—with respect and compassion.

Those sophomores out there know that freshman year can be a lot to handle at first. Collectively, we surveyed some former freshmen, now current sophomores and Class of 2028 students, Sarah Conver, Mylah Rogers, and Heather Lestician. Speaking from their own freshman experience, they shared some great words of advice:

“Some ways to find success are to get involved with things that you enjoy. It introduced us to people who have become great friends! Start new habits now because it will only get harder to start as time goes on. Be nice to your teachers, they may become your biggest supporters and will always be there for you.” 

You only get to do high school once: remember to enjoy your time and have a fun, goal-oriented and productive school year! Here's to an unforgettable and successful school year and high school experience, Class of 2029!