Q&A for How to Survive the First Day of School

You should pack your school supplies (pencil case, pencils, erasers, sharpener, highlighters, notebooks, blank paper, scissors, glue stick, ruler, calculator, and anything else they've told you to bring), a charger if you're allowed to bring your phone, your lunch bag, gym clothing if you take gym, money in case you want to buy something from the cafeteria, a lock for your locker (if specified), and if you're a girl and you need them, a makeup bag and pads/tampons.

If you're nervous, try coping strategies, like deep breathing. When you feel anxious, breath in through your mouth for 5 seconds, and then exhale through your nose for 7 seconds. Repeat this until you're feeling more relaxed. If you need to, don't be afraid to excuse yourself to go somewhere private, like a restroom, to gather your thoughts and calm down.

If you're a new student and get bullied on your first day, go to the school counselor after class and ask if you can talk to them. Let them know that you're new at the school and tell them what happened. They'll be able to help you find a solution and avoid bullying to make your transition to the new school easier.

Making the transition from private school to public school can definitely seem scary. In general, private and public schools are pretty much the same, but public schools have less structure than private school. For example, you might have worn a uniform to school, but now you'll be able to pick your own clothes. On the first day, introduce yourself to your teachers, and say hi to people who you sit by in class. Spend the first day focusing on learning where your classes are and how the school day is set up, and then work on making friends for the rest of the year.

Try talking to your friends before classes start, and then make your way to class. Once you're there, talk to the people around you, and look for anyone in the class who you know from last year. Don't be afraid to smile and wave if you recognize them. During lunch, look around for people who you know, and ask them if you can sit with them. If they say yes, take a seat and make friends with anyone who you don't know. If they say no, look for another table to sit at. Most people are more than happy to make a new friend!

Your school should contact you prior to the year beginning about where to go in the morning on the first day. If they don’t, contact the school and ask. As for getting to your classes, especially during the first few weeks of school, most teachers will likely be more than happy to point you in the right direction. If you’re confused about where to go and notice a teacher in the hallway, ask them for directions.