How to Ace Being the New Kid

By Salma El Gogary

Switching schools can be the most stressful thing that happens to anyone, especially at a young age. We ususally tend to overthink our actions, plan our perfect first day at school ahead, and many other over-dramatic, unexplainable actions. Being the new kid myself for a couple of times, it made me realize that it isn’t worth the stress at all!

So, here’s your guide to surviving being the new kid

Always be nice

Being nice to everyone might just be the most important tip, you have to initiate being nice to receive the same energy back. It can be hard at first because of how overwhelming it could get, but you can work on it.

Have confidence in yourself

Confidence is always the key in any new situation you find yourself in. It makes you more approachable and increases your chances of standing out.

Popularity is so overrated

Don’t focus on trying to be one of the popular kids, it will get you nowhere and it might stress you out more. The concept of popularity is too irrelevant. So just focus on finding friends you mesh with and if they’re not “cool” who cares?

Homesickness is inevitable

You are going to miss your old school as well as your previous friends, no worries, it’s natural to feel this kind of remorse especially in the first couple of months. Eventually, you’re going to get used to this new space and society.

Seek help and advice

If you ever feel overwhelmed with emotions, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Be closer t your family and try to open up about this new experience.

Be patient

It may take you a while to be outgoing again, but you will get there sooner or later. It can be intimidating being surrounded by new faces. So naturally, you’re going to act shy at first.

Stay connected with your old friends

Try to maintain your bond with your old schoolmates, they were and hopefully will be a part of your life in the future. However, remember that friendship is a two-way street; if a friend stops reaching out, cut your losses and establish new friendships.

Be active on social media

The new digital age has brought a lot of pros and cons to our lives. A huge pro is of course social media as it created an easier pathway for socializing. It can be really hard to hold conversations at a new school with tons of new kids. Once you start getting to know some people, start following them on social media, it will increase your chances of being more comfortable in the new scene.

Keep the positive vibes

Don’t be bitter because you left your old school, you can keep in contact with friends who matter most, and maybe this new chapter of your life will bring new friends and happy experiences along.

Pay it forward

Keep the cycle going. When you’re no longer the newbie, and by any chance you come across a new kid at school, try to be as welcoming as possible. It’s easy to forget how hard it is to be new, so give them some advice and include them in your group.