Column: Ask Monty
Hey Monty,
I’m a freshman and I’m pretty nervous about finals. I haven’t really dealt with this much stress before because middle school didn’t really have finals.
Plus, a lot of people say your grades from freshman year don’t count. Is that true? This would be the first time my school record has actually mattered for college. My parents really want me to do well, and I want to go to a good college.
I know Carlmont has some resources for students, but I can’t find the announcements on Canvas and sometimes I don’t hear them over the loudspeaker. Do you know where I can find student resources leading up to finals week or, like, do you have any strategies for studying?
Sincerely,
A concerned freshman
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Hey bud,
I hear ya! My freshman year was pretty rough, but I have definitely learned some tips from my time at Carlmont.
For starters, kudos on thinking ahead. It is a common misconception that your grades from freshman year don’t count. All four years of high school factor into your cumulative GPA at the top of your transcript.
Still, don’t focus on college too much yet. You can expect to have annual or semi-annual trips to the College and Career Center in B-Hall to get updated on (you guessed it) college and career information throughout high school.
Overall, the College and Career Center is a good resource to be aware of. Next to that room is the counseling office, where you can go to meet with your guidance counselor. If you’re not sure who yours is, ask the front desk. Your counselor can help you with college information, as well as give you advice on managing stress.
In terms of test prep, the library is a good resource. It is open most days before school and during lunch. You can go in there to look at textbooks, use computers, do research, or print out papers. You can also go to the tutoring center in A-12 to get peer help with work. It’s open during 0 period and after school most days.
I’ve also heard a couple of class-specific tips while walking through the halls!
If you’re turning in an essay for English, lab write-up for science, or any other type of written report, Grammarly.com is a free online editor.
Quizlet.com is a free online flashcard site where you can collaborate on study sets or make your own. This resource can be great for history terms, English vocabulary, scientific definitions, or foreign language practice.
Math can be a difficult one to study for. Khan Academy is a free online compilation of tutorials that include algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. If you’re more of a book person, it can be helpful to just go through your math textbook and try a few problems from each chapter review, usually found at the end of the section.
Finals can feel a little overwhelming. If you’re studying and feel like you’re just not getting it, take a break. Walk your dog around the block. Take a quick shower. Make some tea. Nap.
Definitely set aside time to study and try not to go out too much during review week or finals week, but remember: the night before your test, the best thing you can do for yourself is sleep.
On test day, don’t neglect your breakfast in the morning, and remember to drink some water. Bring extra pens and pencils, and show up to school early because everyone starts at the same time. Keep a positive attitude and remember that you have worked hard. Just showing up to class and being engaged in your work has prepared you for this moment. Good luck, Concerned Freshman!
Love,
Your Friend Monty