It is that time of year again: back-to-school season! 

While some kids may be eager to get back into the classroom, others could happily live in an endless summer. Academic and social pressures are real, and it is completely normal to feel nervous as a new school year draws closer. 

But, if the past year has taught us anything:

We talked to 10 students from different grades and asked them what advice they would give to a friend who is nervous about going back to school.

Here are their responses. 

“Try your best and you will do great!” 
–Caroline, Grade 3

“Don’t be scared, the people around you are there to help you.” 
–Taylor, Grade 5

“You know what? August is not over. Tell your mom or dad to switch you to Miss H’s class. You do not want to get the boy teacher.“ 
-Aubrey Gwyneth, Grade 4

“It might be hard but don’t give up, and you will get through it.” 
–Riley, Grade 8

“If you are worried about what people will think of you, remember that they really aren’t paying attention to you.” 
–Claire, Grade 8

”Everything will be okay.” 
-Theresa, Grade 7

“Embrace it. Stay positive, and don’t let others get the best of you.” 
-Sedona, Grade 7*

*Sedona happens to be a jack of all trades, and when she’s not dancing, learning new instruments or gardening, you might find her making bracelets for her friends! Click here to make friendship bracelets with Sedona.

“Don’t care so much about what people think of you, just be yourself.” 
-Julie, Grade 8

“Everyone is in the same boat and everyone will be nervous. The nerves only last for a short period of time, and they will go away as soon as you get there.”
-Claire, Grade 9

“For high school and college students, I would say one of the biggest things is that everyone is feeling the same way as you are, especially for the first two weeks or so. But once you get into your groove and find clubs/activities that you like, you’ll find people with shared interests and that makes everything easier.”
-McKenna, College Sophomore

Finally, a mom’s point of view:

“I would just say to try your best, keep a smile on your face, remember you’re not the only one who is nervous, especially this year.  You are strong and brave and if you think you can do it, then you can. PS… don’t be a stink pot to your teacher, because she is also nervous to have a new class.”

From all of us at GNL, we wish you a happy and safe start of the school year!