A Teen's Perspective

Hello, my name is Tiffany Krupke. I am 13 years old, and I attend Paynesville Area Middle School. All the information found in this column is my opinion and the opinions of my classmates on various issues.

As another summer draws to a close, the signs of another school year beginning are all around us. There is no way to avoid it or ignore it. So whether today's youth are ready or not, school is starting.

Going back to school can be fun, with all the new clothes and school supplies. It also can be just plain nerve-wracking.

Returning to school generates more emotions in today's youth than just anticipation. Confusion, anxiety, and sadness are some of the emotions today's youth may feel about school starting.

Whether it's being in a new building, meeting a new teacher, or seeing friends again, starting school can be awfully nerve-wracking. The point is every student is different and everyone is bound to worry about something.

Being in a new building can be kind of rough: new teachers, new classes, a locker with a combination lock, and a new school. When I started into sixth grade last year, one of the things I worried about most was finding all my classes.

Before sixth grade, I had rarely been in the middle school, and I had no idea where any of my classes were. After I went to open house, I felt better. I found all my classes, and I asked the teachers some questions about my schedule. I didn't worry as much after open house.

Going to open house is a good idea for students who are nervous about school starting. Open house is a good time to ask questions and get to know a little bit more about your grade.

Another thing that always makes me a little nervous is meeting teachers. It is difficult to know what each teacher expects of his or her students until you meet them and learn their expectations. This is another reason going to open house is a good idea. Until you get to know your teachers, it is a good plan to come to class prepared and ready to learn.

If you think about it, it is amazing what many people overlook in the rush of back to school sales, buying school supplies, open houses, and school registrations. Back to school is a brand new start that can cause some anxiety.

Back to school is also a time to see your friends, try your best in school, and have a great year.

To every student that might be reading this article, remember when you are bored in class and you think, "Why do we need to know this?" you never know when any of the information you learn in school can become important.

For all the students out there: have a great year, and let's try to make the most of it.

Krupke is a seventh grader at Paynesville Area Middle School.