• How can I get a tutor, and are they worth the money?

High school classes can be difficult. There is new material every week and a large amount of work that goes with the lesson as well. So getting a little extra help is nothing to be ashamed of, and it’s even recommended. 

Although tutors can be expensive, there are other options for a smaller cost or completely for free. Some teachers have free after-school tutoring, or they advise students to come in during the morning, lunches and breaks. Asking your teacher for help is always a great way to get face-to-face advice if you are having trouble on a specific part of the material. For instance, AP Human Geography teacher Megan Thompson has after-school sessions for her students and encourages them to use them to their advantage. Math teacher Michael Pentz also provides after-school sessions during the end of the year to help prepare students for their EOCs and exams.  

Tutors do not necessarily have to be an adult outside of school; they can be someone from school. If you know somebody who is offering their services, don’t be afraid to reach out—chances are they will be happy to help you. It is good to work with someone familiar with the material—especially if they have taken the same course as you with the same teacher—because they will be more comfortable with the way they teach you. 

“I started asking my friends and other people at the school to see if they can help me now,” sophomore Zara Valencia said. “And it actually did help me out a lot because they taught the same methods as my teacher, and I was able to learn the steps the way that my teacher does in order to not fall behind.”

• How can I stay awake during the dark months?

The “dark months” of the year refer specifically to November through February, which are the months that have the longest nights and shortest days. Because of the bright and earlier sunrise and sunset, the days seem to go by quicker. It is common for your body to feel sluggish and tired because you get less sunlight throughout the day.

Although the “dark months” seem exhausting, there are several ways you can stay energized and awake. Instead of going straight to a Celsius or Redbull, herbal tea is a great alternative for caffeine. Tea is more hydrating and provides the nutrients and vitamins that caffeine doesn’t. It soothes the body, aids digestion and improves sleep, which is very important during this time of year. 

Another way to keep yourself motivated during the winter can be through getting exercise and sunlight. The Northwestern Health Sciences University recommends at least five to 10 minutes of natural light after you wake up. Although it’s hard to get your body moving early in the morning, a short after-school walk is a great way to get some steps and exposure to nature. 

Getting enough sleep should be prioritized throughout this part of the year as well. Seven to nine hours of sleep is recommended for all high school-aged students. Sleep is important to brain function, staying focused and overall physical health. A long day of school, followed by practice and homework is difficult to accomplish if the body is running on a low amount of rest. 

• How can I manage all the work?

With the first quarter out of the way and teachers settling in with their new classes, the workload tends to become more tedious. Projects, presentations and less leniency are all seen routinely this time of year.

To avoid falling behind, set a strict schedule for yourself. This means doing whatever you need to do to lock in at home and at school. Setting time limits on TikTok and Instagram can be a start. Begin to make a routine for yourself so you can focus more on schoolwork rather than doom scrolling. Give yourself an hour after school dedicated to work with no distractions everyday. 

Oxford Learning recommends setting up a study area where you can just focus on doing your work. Taking distractions out of the “homework zone” will ensure a peaceful and uninterrupted environment. 

Never be afraid to ask for help! Asking your friends, teachers and parents are all possible solutions if you feel like you are falling behind. Take advantage of free sessions your teachers may have, or ask them questions during breaks and lunches. A teacher’s job is to teach, so they will be more than willing to help!

Focusing on one thing at a time will help you prioritize what’s important. For example, working on a project that is due in two days is more important than reading a few chapters of your ELA assigned novel that you need to finish by next week. You can read the book during any free time like lunch, break and on the bus. 

Don’t be afraid to send in some struggles you may have to [email protected]. Others may share them too and it is okay to ask for some advice!