1. Get involved in activities
Of course, the academics at your new school are important but don’t forget to have some fun, too. During and after school it’s important to find activities to get involved with in order to meet new friends and familiarize yourself with your new school. Find out what clubs and athletics are offered and find the right fit for you, whether it’s soccer or chess.
2. Use your Gaynor academic toolbox
• Use a planner to stay organized. Color-code your notes and materials to help keep you on track.
• Continue to use the note-taking formats that work best for you, such as two-column notes or multiple source notes.
• Remember COPS when writing and editing your work:
C – Capitalization
O – Overall Appearance
P – Punctuation
S – Spelling
• Utilize strategies to break down and code words
3. Challenge but don’t overwhelm yourself
When it comes to school, it’s important to have a balance between pushing yourself to do and be your best and knowing what is realistic for you. Try breaking down big assignments into smaller tasks so that they are more manageable. If you start to feel overwhelmed, take a short break (especially during longer classes) to stay focused and energized. During breaks, try walking up and down stairs, getting a drink of water, or stretching your body. To help “reset” your system, it can be helpful to take a few deep breaths.
4. Remember to Self-Advocate
Familiarize yourself with the support offered at your school. Don’t be afraid to self-advocate for the accommodations your need so you can continue to learn the way that works best for you.
5. Keep in touch!
Remember to stay connected with your fellow Gaynor friends, but don’t forget about our Alumni Office! The Alumni Office loves to hear about your latest achievements. Be sure to keep your contact information updated and when you want to come back to visit Gaynor, they’ll help you schedule a tour as well. Contact Stephanie Shah, Director of Alumni Relations, at 212.787.7070 ext. 1115 or at sshah@stephengaynor.org.
This article was originally published in the Winter 2018 issue of Gaynor Gazette, which you can view here.