By: Belle Burns, student ambassador // MDS Musings Blog
The 2020-2021 academic year is officially over and that means preparing for the 2021-2022 school year. For some people, that means transferring to a new school. Belle Burns, Cavalier Ambassador at Mount de Sales Academy, gives her best tips for students making the transition to a new school.
- Become accustomed to the new academic setting
The best way to get accustomed to a new school is to first schedule a campus tour. This is a great way to prepare yourself for the upcoming school year and give yourself a head start – become familiar with the different buildings, locate your classes, understand drop-off/pick-up procedures, etc. 
- Know to ask for help when needed
Perhaps the most important thing about school is asking for help if and when you need it. As you make the transition from your old school to your new one, you may find the course work more rigorous or the teaching philosophy different. Take the opportunity to ask questions. After all, that’s what teachers are there for!
- Get to know the students and faculty
Getting to know the students and faculty is a great way to familiarize yourself with not just the school philosophy and values, but the people as well. Make sure to regularly approach faculty members in the classroom and outside of campus, as well as socializing with the students. This will allow you to build strong relationships within the school community.
- Research the extracurricular activities offered
Have yourself or someone else reach out to the school to learn more about the extracurricular activities that are offered – ask teachers, visit the school website, meet coaches, attend informational meetings. This is another great way to get to know the community of the new school you are attending.
- Choose your classes wisely
This is one of the most important parts of being at a new school. It is recommended that you reach out to your new principal or counselor, as well as students who have taken a particular class, so you can have a good perspective on rigor and expectations. You should also try and reach out to the teacher of the course if possible. By doing this, you will save yourself a lot of worry once school starts!
Now that you know these 5 things, hopefully you will walk into your new school prepared and excited! Good luck during the upcoming school year!
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Mount de Sales Academy is a private Catholic school located in Macon, GA, and serves students in Bibb, Houston, Jones, Monroe, Peach and other surrounding counties. MDS is sponsored and inspired by the Sisters of Mercy. Since 1876, MDS has served a diverse college-preparatory community of learners—students and teachers alike—who are poised to discover, challenged to innovate, and motivated to serve.