High Life : A WEEKLY FORUM FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS : A Few Words From the Wise for New Students

Going to a new high school can be scary, especially for freshmen. It involves adjusting to an entirely new system: new class schedule, new teachers and new friends.

Good advice and, perhaps, a helping hand from a high school veteran is welcomed. As the start of another school year approaches, Hot Topics asks, “What advice can you offer students new to your school?”

“Be yourself and don’t be shy.” Crede Zacharias, 16, sophomore, Brea-Olinda

“Have a good time. Don’t let anyone put you down, and try to be the best you can be.” Joyce Chan, 15, sophomore, Brea-Olinda

“Don’t be afraid to go up to talk to people just because you are a freshman. People aren’t as mean as they seem.” Renee Tapia, 15, sophomore, Brea-Olinda

“Keep quiet the first few years so you can scope everything out.” Alex Blanco, 14, freshman, Brea-Olinda

“Get involved in everything so you can meet people. Don’t hide out and hope people will come up to you.” Rick Taylor, 16, senior, Brea-Olinda

“Study real hard if you want to be successful and go to college.” Pete Bakotich, 16, junior, Brea-Olinda

“Don’t give dirty looks. Be nice. Play soccer.” Dawn Martin, 16, junior, Brea-Olinda

“Do your hardest, don’t slack off, and don’t forget about your studies.” Isabel Stumpf, 15, junior, Valencia

“Get into sports for sure.” Richard Sanchez, 17, senior, Brea-Olinda

“Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Be yourself.” Kris Brattain, 15, sophomore, Brea-Olinda

“Don’t worry about seniors beating you up.” Chris Millar, 15, junior, Brea-Olinda

“Do whatever your teacher tells you. Don’t get on the bad side of them.” Bill Jones, 15, sophomore, Brea-Olinda

“You may be peer-pressured, but try not to follow the crowd.” Julie Kim, 16, junior, Troy

“Have school spirit.” Bernard Bautista, 16, junior, Brea-Olinda

“Get active in sports and be friendly to everybody.” Tammy Tillman, 15, junior, Brea-Olinda

“Don’t be worried about the older kids, because once you get here, everything chills and everything gets settled. Nothing really bad happens to you. Everybody is really nice.” Desiree Edmondson, 16, sophomore, Brea-Olinda

“Watch your back.” Rich Miguel, 16, junior, Brea-Olinda

“Don’t worry. It’s not as hard as you think. You’ll get used to it. Don’t annoy people, and don’t try to kiss up to older people.” Helen Ji, 16, senior, Esperanza

Next Week’s Hot Topic: Do you think the world will be a better or a worse place 100 years from now?