Transitioning into high school can be an intimidating process for eighth graders. 3 entirely new groups of people, more freedom, and a great deal of responsibility are only a sample of the things that they will experience at Milford.

Students in their last year of middle school are used to being the “top dogs”, but going into high school puts them at the bottom of the class a
gain. However, being a freshman at Milford High School is not as terrifying as it may seem.

Every student in the upper classes understands what it is like to be a freshman, and would be more than willing to help someone who is lost or confused. One of the ways 8th graders can be more comfortable in Milford is through the tour of the school.

On March 9th, 8th graders will be split into groups and led around by members of Milford’s Leadership program. The students will visit the gym, workout rooms, the Center for Performing Arts, the classrooms, and many of the other places that Milford has to offer.

The incoming freshmen will be treated with respect and kindness by the teachers and students at Milford High School, and they can see how fun and friendly Milford really is. Maxine Livermore, who is currently a senior, recalls what it was like during her first year at Milford. “I was pretty freaked out by how everyone seemed bigger and more mature than I was, I felt a little bit of anxiety but when it came down to it people were really nice and cool.” Livermore also had some advice for the incoming group of freshman. “Try to make friends but keep your priorities straight. Don’t try to be cool. Being cool is finding a group of friends who respect you and are always willing to have a good laugh.”

During the transition into Milford, eighth graders are bombarded by rumors and false information from other students and even some of the teachers. David Detavernier, a graduate of Milford High School, shared some of the rumors he faced. “I remember being told that ‘high school is a lot more difficult’ and that ‘once you get into high school you’re going to be so overwhelmed with work’ but at Milford they didn’t just drown you with information, it was really gradual.” Detavernier went on to explain that the classes would have reviews to make sure all the students had a good understanding before jumping into new lessons.

Incoming freshman are also scared of the quads, which is a group of hallways in a seemingly confusing pattern. However, teachers and students in the area will be more than willing to help and after a few times walking through, the quads can be quickly mastered.

Some students also fear that they will be bullied, however Milford has zero tolerance for bullies. Milford has a very friendly environment, but when hundreds of young adults are put into one building, some bullying is inevitable. Despite bullying being impossible to avoid, Milford provides students with plenty of opportunities to get help and resolve any conflicts with other students.

Nathan Napier, an 8th grader at Heartland Middle School, has experienced some of these fears. “ I’m used to being in a small building, I don’t know what I’m going to do at a new school with so many more rooms and people.” Nathan went on to say that “ I’m really scared of walking into a classroom full of seniors. I’d be mortified.”

Having a little bit of anxiety before going into a new school is completely normal, but students should know that Milford is a great place to get an outstanding education, meet amazing people, and have opportunities to create a better future. The incoming group of freshman will be welcomed into the friendly community of Milford High School so they can have a great start into high school.