Heading into high school can feel like stepping onto a brand-new planet. One minute you’re the top dog at your middle school, and the next, you’re a freshman, trying to find your way around a bigger campus and figure out a whole new set of rules. For both students and parents, this transition is a big deal – full of excitement, a little bit of anxiety, and a lot of questions.
The good news? You’re not alone. Every single high school student—even the seniors who look like they have it all together—has been in your shoes. The best way to tackle this new adventure is to be prepared.
At MSM, we believe in helping you find your footing, not just during your first week, but throughout your entire high school journey. Our goal is to empower you to reach your greatest potential and feel confident doing it. So, whether you’re about to walk through our doors for the first time or you’re just starting to think about high school, here are five things you should know.
- Don’t Just Find a School, Find Your People. High school isn’t just about what you learn in the classroom; it’s about the people you learn with. Finding a community where you feel accepted, heard, and supported can make all the difference. At MSM, we talk a lot about “sisterhood.” It’s not just a buzzword; it’s the foundation of everything we do. It’s that feeling of knowing your classmates have your back, whether it’s on the volleyball court or in a tough AP Calculus class.
When you’re looking at schools, ask yourself: Does this place feel welcoming? Can I see myself making friends here? A strong community makes the academic and social challenges of high school much more manageable. Our Big Sister/Little Sister program is a perfect example of this. As an incoming freshman, you’re paired with a senior who can show you the ropes, answer your questions, and be a friendly face in the hallway. This tradition helps make that big campus feel a little smaller and a lot more like home.
- Grades Are Important, But They’re Not the Only Thing. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of grades and test scores. And while academic excellence is a core part of the MSM experience—our students consistently earn top AP scores and receive millions in college scholarships—your high school years should be about more than just your GPA.
High school is a chance to explore. Maybe you want to try out for a play, join the debate team, or learn a new language. At MSM, we have over 18 clubs and organizations, from the Mock Trial Team to the Robotics Club. These are the places where you’ll discover new passions, build leadership skills, and create memories that will last a lifetime. College admissions officers want to see well-rounded students, not just perfect report cards. They want to see someone who is curious, engaged, and ready to contribute to a campus community.
- It’s OK to Ask for Help. This is a big one. As you transition to high school, the workload can feel overwhelming. You might have more complex assignments, longer papers, and higher expectations. It’s a normal part of the process, and it’s completely okay to need a little help.
A great school offers a support system. At MSM, our Academic Learning Center is a key resource where students can get one-on-one help from teachers or even peer tutoring from National Honor Society students. The most successful students are the ones who aren’t afraid to ask for a helping hand. They know that collaboration and a willingness to learn from others are strengths, not weaknesses.
“High school is a huge step, and we know it can be a little intimidating, ” says Elizabeth Suchan-Reitz ‘07, Admissions Director. “Our whole goal here at MSM is to help every girl find her unique path and feel confident while she’s on it. We’re here to support her as she figures out who she is and where she wants to go.”
- Traditions Make the Journey Memorable. When you look back on your high school years, you’ll remember the big moments, but you’ll also cherish the unique traditions that define your experience. At MSM, traditions are woven into the fabric of the school, creating a shared history that connects every student, past and present.
From the “Red Rose” tradition that marks major milestones like the Junior Ring Ceremony, to fun events like the Father-Daughter Dance, these moments create a sense of belonging. They’re the inside jokes, the shared memories, and the stories you’ll tell for years to come. These traditions aren’t just for fun; they’re the glue that holds a community together, making a large institution feel like a close-knit family.
- Get Ready to Take the Lead. High school is a time of immense personal growth. It’s when you start to find your own voice and step into leadership roles. In an all-girls environment like MSM, you’re at the center of everything. This creates a powerful environment where you’re encouraged to speak up, take risks, and lead without fear of judgment.
The all-girls advantage is real. We see it every day in our students who graduate as confident, capable young women ready to make a difference in the world. Whether you’re leading a service project, directing a play, or simply sharing your opinion in class, you’ll have the space and encouragement to become the person you were meant to be.
The next few months are an exciting time as you and your family explore all the amazing high school options out there. As you get ready for this big step, remember these five tips and look for a place that will help you grow—not just as a student, but as a person. We hope to see you at our Open House to experience the MSM difference for yourself!
