Our advice column returns, with McKay Lucas (’21) and Ashley Grubstein (’22) answering your questions about school, extracurriculars, and balancing the two. Want to submit a question of your own? Send them to this link and we’ll answer them in our next issue.
What can I do if I am balancing a school sport and homework and don’t have time to study?
Use your time wisely! Use study halls, free periods, and even club time if needed for work time. Know you have a test later in the week? Use the weekend to plan ahead, study the material you already have. Also, know your game days; don’t plan to cram for a major assessment the night you have an away game at Durham Academy or NRCA. Study a few nights before so you only need a refresher that night.
What can I give as my graduation present?
A great option is setting up or donating money to a website dedicated to saving for a trip or other needs. This is a simple option that allows the most room for flexibility. Suitcases are another great idea for students who will be traveling often between home and their school. Awaytravel.com offers bags that can be customized with travel essentials to fit anyone’s needs. Finally, gas cards are a flexible and practical option for graduates who will be traveling often between home and school.
With my exchange student coming, how should I balance school and getting the most out of that experience?
It truly will pay off if you can start working ahead of time to be ready for them. Reading ahead in your English book or getting a head start on studying will help to provide more time for socializing. Additionally, your student doesn’t want to spend all of their time in the kitchen with everyone. Time your homework so that they can catch a break when you take yours.
How should I approach the number of advanced courses I take next year?
It is inevitable that students will hear a lot about the “right” number of advanced classes to take next year. When asked about the “magic number, college counselor Mrs. Leya Jones said, “it’s important to remember that there is no ‘right’ number of Advanced courses; every student is managing a different combination of other factors. The key is finding the best balance for YOU: balancing an appropriate and reasonable level of challenge with ability to succeed, and balancing total academic work load with non-academic commitments (activities, hobbies, friends/family, sleep!).” Overall, the most important thing to consider is that you are taking the classes for yourself, not to put on a college application.