For all the Freshmen and newcomers at Torrance high school, here are some tips from students who might have made mistakes you can avoid!
Coming to Torrance High for your first year can be intimidating. I came here as a sophomore, and everyone was already established in their friend groups and knew where all the classes were.
It was scary having to make new friends with people who might think I’m weird or different. But, despite that I have had the best school year ever here at THS.
As someone who struggled, I want to make sure that does not happen to you. So, here are some tips and tricks to getting used to THS!
It is super easy to pass classes as long as you complete all of your homework. As Jocelyn Flores (Junior) says, “Do your work and don’t cheat because when it comes to the tests your grades will fall badly if you are lost when it comes to the things that matter most.”
And, as someone who was expecting to be able to switch classes and was not successful, I struggled with things I could have avoided my first year.
Senior Natale Abzoid thinks that taking classes you know you can manage is a better route than taking classes you aren’t so sure about. Of course starting off at a higher level class and being able to switch somewhere else is also an option, but you aren’t guaranteed a seat.
While your academics are obviously important, student life at Torrance High is something everyone should try to be a part of. Whether it’s through a sport, band, clubs, or even attending THS events.
Club information day is September 17 which will give you many opportunities to draw yourself towards something you might have a passion towards. Some clubs on campus include: KIWINS (a club all about volunteering), a variety of different culture clubs, Chess club, Varsity club, FCA, Feminist club, Fashion, Aerospace & Aviation, American Red Cross, and tons more to choose from. While scavenging through the club pop-us, many of them offer treats or goodies to get people interested!
If you are a freshman who wants help around the school feel free to check out Senior-Freshman Buddy Week (September 16-20). This is when any freshmen who are interested in having a senior to help them get through their first year. One of the great things about this is that you can buddy up with someone who plays the same sport as you, or has the same interests and you both can discover what goes on in the opposite grade levels.
And don’t forget to let your parents know about meeting all your teachers! Back to school night is September 18. This is when your parents can run around like you every day to see your classrooms, your teachers, and just know what will be happening in your first year at Torrance High.
Keep in mind that some teachers will be giving extra credit if you join your parents for Back to School Night. If you are interested in going to the 9th Grade Parent Night, feel free to join all the other parents at 5:00 pm- 5:45 pm in the Auditorium to learn about the counseling services offered, all the resources available, and how to plan ahead giving you the most successful path at THS.
