Freshman Year Essentials: Build a Foundation for Success

Freshman year is more than just an academic hurdle; it’s the launchpad for your entire high school journey. This blog gives practical, grade-specific advice to help freshmen explore, succeed, and start strong.

3/16/20252 min read

🔍 About This Blog

This guide was created using insights from reputable sources, including Harvard Summer School, The Princeton Review, Time Magazine, Empowerly, and more. It’s designed to provide evidence-backed, practical advice for students entering their freshman year of high school.

Freshman Year: Build Your Best Foundation

Starting high school brings bigger workloads, new classes, and plenty of change. But what you do in 9th grade matters—colleges look at your full high school record, so freshman year is your chance to get ahead and set good habits in motion. Here’s how to make it count.

Step 1: Choose Your Classes with Purpose

Pick core academic courses that meet graduation requirements—and prepare you for college‑level rigor. If available, take Honors, AP, or dual enrollment classes to show initiative and depth.
Meet with your school counselor early to discuss A‑G requirements and plan your schedule for the next four years.

Step 2: Build Strong Academic Habits

Develop routines now: use a planner or calendar to keep track of assignments and deadlines.
Practice effective note-taking, establish a focused study space, and avoid procrastination.
Prioritize sleep, nutrition, and manageable study sessions to maintain both physical and mental health.

Step 3: Explore Extracurriculars That Interest You

Join clubs, teams, or volunteer groups that genuinely interest you—depth is better than breadth.
Look for leadership opportunities—even small roles like project lead, committee organizer, or peer mentor make a difference.

Step 4: Reflect on Your Passions and Career Interests

Use interest assessments (e.g. MyACT Inventory, school guidance tools) to explore career fields that excite you.
Talk with older students, counselors, or mentors to better understand your options and set goals.

Step 5: Begin a Resume of Your Achievements

Start a running list (or digital folder) of awards, successes, volunteer hours, special projects, or leadership milestones—even small ones matter.
Save significant papers, art, or community project work in case you want to share later—this helps build your personal brand from the start.

Step 6: Plan Ahead for Summer Opportunities

Research summer camps, academic programs, volunteer work, or internships before the school year begins.
Even informal experiences (like volunteering, community service, or independent projects) help you explore interests and stand out later.

Step 7: Find Support & Mentorship

Participate in school orientation programs and peer mentoring networks like Link Crew (where available) to build early academic and social support.
Regularly check in with teachers or counselors if you’re struggling or curious about opportunities—they’re there to guide you.

Why These Steps Matter

Colleges evaluate your full high school record—starting strong in freshman year gives you academic momentum and more time to mature your interests and achievements.
Early involvement in extracurricular and academic work shapes your identity, builds habits, and makes later years feel more manageable.

Wrapping Up

At Eddo, we’re committed to helping students like you stay organized, discover new opportunities, and plan for the future with confidence.

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