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Note taking is really a personal preference. However, if you’re looking for a method that helps with memorization then I would recommend trying handwritten notes. On the other hand digital notes are definitely faster, more efficient, and won't give you hand cramps. You should not have to take too many notes in your classes but if you should learn quickly.

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Once you get home from school I would take a 15 min break to get a snack and chill out. But I would recommend finishing your homework early to get  all of your assignments out of the way and so you don't stress about it later. You don't want to procrastinate until the night before it’s due and lose sleep.

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It honestly depends on the person and how many extra-curriculars you're participating in. If you have practice, meetings, or rehearsal after school I would take advantage of extra time in class or even multitasking during lunch if you know you have a lot of work to finish.

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Yes, you can definitely transfer out of a class if it's not a good fit for you! I would talk to your counselor as soon as you know you want to transfer out of a class because you may have to change around your schedule if a certain period is full. Regarding semester classes, the class catalog will have all the classes available for the school year.

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Many students take classes over the summer to complete requirements for graduation. Taking classes such as personal finance or gym over the summer can either open up an elective spot in your schedule or give you a free period during the day.

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School can be really tiring so there is nothing wrong with taking a break after. However, I would recommend trying to finish your homework earlier rather than later so that you do not have to stress. If you are worried about procrastinating too much I would suggest setting a timer on your phone.

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To stay organized I would recommend using a planner or an agenda. If you don't like the agendas the school provides there are many different ones available at areas office supply stores or online. Having a planner helps you keep track of the assignments you need to complete or upcoming tests and quizzes.

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Going to high school, you are put into a totally different environment and have to adapt to many changes. It may be a little difficult at first but after about a week, you know your way around the school, you find faster ways to get to class, and you establish a routine that works for you. And there are always upperclassmen and teachers in the hallways that will be happy to answer a question if you need help with anything.

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It depends on how many extracurriculars you have but I suggest trying to do your work during class time and/or Highlander or Saxon time if you're worried about getting it done. It is hard to not procrastinate but getting your work done early gives you more time to participate in the activities you're interested in.

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While middle and high school are different, I was able to adapt quickly. The hardest part is learning to manage your time wisely and study for tests efficiently, but as you get more practice, it will get easier. If you're ever concerned or stressed about it you can talk to your teachers, most of the time they are easy to talk to and helpful.

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Yes, you will always have an opportunity to transfer out of a class if it is too difficult for you. All you have to do is email and/or talk to your councilor about it and they will transfer you out. However, your schedule might be rearranged because of it so keep that in mind. McLean High School offers several semester classes which you can preview in the course catalog (https://mcleanhs.fcps.edu/sites/default/files/media/inline-files/10th%20-%2012th%20Grades%20Course%20Selection%20Sheet%202020%20-%202021_1.pdf). The course catalog for Langley High School can be found here:  https://insys.fcps.edu/https://insys.fcps.edu/CourseCatOnline/frontPanel/415/nocourselist/1/0/0/1CourseCatOnline/frontPanel/415/nocourselist/1/0/0/1.

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My best time management/ organizational tip is to plan out your time on a calendar, planner, or even blank google doc. If I have a busy weekend, I like to make a list of everything I have to do and the spread it out by day. That way, I do not get overwhelmed and can stay stress free.

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As a freshman in general I played it lowkey. In the first week or so I went into the wrong class once which was embarrassing but the teacher helped me find my class and it all turned out great.

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When selecting courses for your freshman year, inform your eighth grade counselor you wish to take classes over the summer. You would need to register yourself on the summer learning online campus sector of the FCPS website. If you take classes that complete a credit towards your diploma, you do not need to take them again during the school year. Both required classes (such as those in math: geometry, algebra II, etc.) and elective courses are offered through the online summer campus.

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My best time management tip is to print out a monthly or weekly calendar. This helps to organize the assignments you have to turn in and work on per day.

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My most embarrassing freshman mistake is when I was asking the person next to me for an eraser during a test. My teacher thought I was cheating and calling us out in front of the whole class and almost sent me down to the office. The point is is that teachers take honor code violations very seriously! If you violate it you will not be able to enter any honors societies or clubs.

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My most embarrassing freshman mistake was when I went into my third period class when it wasn't third period. My teacher had a senior class then, and it was so awkward since it was obvious that they were much older than me! My teacher was super understanding though - he let me know straight away. Not only did I learn when third period started, but I also learned that teachers are all here to help us navigate the high school process!

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It depends on the person, your friend might adust quickly while it might take you a little longer. It's important to remember that this year is different and stressful and it's ok to not have everything under control right away. High school is the time to find your best study and time-managing methods and to make mistakes!