Helpful Tips continued ...

Tip number three is TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOURSELF. It is easy to blame others for one’s own failures, but it takes real courage to admit one’s faults. The sooner an individual realizes his or her weaknesses the sooner one can take positive actions towards making things right.

Tip number four is PARTICIPATE. Although all these tips are useful I personally believe this particular tip is really important because if a student participates teachers will know that student cares about their education. Participation also allows one to develop a relationship with their teachers which can be very helpful in itself.

Tip number five states BE ENTHUSIASTIC AND SHOW INITIATIVE. Take action when you see something that needs to be done, do not wait for others to get the ball rolling. After all, if one truly cares about making changes showing enthusiasm is one of the best ways to get others to help.

Tip number six is ASK FOR HELP. Whether you are a child, adolescent, or adult situations may arise in life that one may not know how to handle. Students should never be afraid to ask for help. After working with Mrs. Blair, Mrs. Throne, Mrs. Egan, Mrs. Akagi, and Mr. Leber I know first hand that Middletown High School is full of caring adults who would be more than happy to assist any student in anyway they can, but they cannot help if you do not ask.

Tip number seven is SET REALISTIC GOALS. Although setting goals is a great way to motivate one’s self, if goals are set too high one might be setting themselves up for disappointment rather than success. For example, say I have not been doing so well in a certain class, and my grade has dropped to a D or F. Therefore an unrealistic goal would be to bring that grade up to an A by next month. It might be more realistic to set a goal such as trying to raise that grade by one letter grade next month. Once that goal has been reached it will be time to set another.

Lauren Cummings, Guidance Department Intern