Ask Ed: An Orcas Island Student Advice Column

Ed / Contributed photo

Dear Ed,

I think it afflicts many, but I have the chronic problem of falling asleep after advisory. Many people suffer from this, and I do not know how to stop. How do I overcome this, Ed? 

Sincerely, Curious Viking

 

Hello Curious Viking,

This is a common problem that afflicts many students but can be easily combated. Going to sleep a little earlier will help you wake up before advisory, feel well-rested, and not need to go back to sleep. It can also be helpful to create a morning routine, so that by the time you need to log into advisory, you are up and ready for the day. Simply brushing your teeth and washing your face in the morning will make you feel more rejuvenated and awake. Making your bed as soon as you get up is also helpful, as it makes it less enticing to get back in. If all else fails, drink as much water as you can, as soon as you wake up. That way you will be too busy peeing to fall back to sleep.

Hope this helps, Ed

 

Hi Ed,

We have been going back to school in person lately, and it has been pretty overwhelming. I am worried about going back to school completely next year because it will be my first in-person year of high school.

From: Freaked-out Freshman

 

Hey Freaked-out Freshman,

First of all, congratulations on almost completing your first year of high school. I understand how it can be intimidating to enter school in person, especially if you are new to being in high school, but trust me when I say it is a lot less stressful than you would think. The school work does get more intense, but socially, I think most students would say that it is much less dramatic than middle school. If you want to make friends with upperclassmen, it can be helpful to join sports or clubs. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there. Everyone is accepting and welcoming, and there are so many clubs in the high school so I am sure you will be able to find something you like. Other great parts of high school are the sports games and school events. With COVID-19 this year, you have not had the chance to experience the stresses of homecoming week or the packed bleachers during a basketball game, but you will soon. Coming to school events is a great way to meet new people and show your school spirit. High school can seem stressful, but do not let it intimidate you. Here are some key pieces of advice as you continue your years of high school. Firstly, do not procrastinate Mr. Austin’s essays. You think you will be able to crank it out in a few hours, but suddenly it is 2 a.m. and you are still trying to understand the critical articles. Secondly, be nice to your teachers. Seriously. It is all fun and games until you are asking for a letter of recommendation from Mrs. Alperin senior year and she still remembers how you broke her table. Thirdly, your grades do matter. I know it is not fun to do homework, especially when you could be going out with friends, but in the long run, it definitely pays off. With that being said, do not let your life be consumed by schoolwork, otherwise, you will miss out on the high school experience. And finally, do not get lunch in town every day. I promise you it is not as cool as you think, and you will be broke by junior year.

Wishing you luck, Ed

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