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Results for 09/01/2006 to 09/15/2006

Last week, Marissa said:

"Middle Schoool Worries

I'm really nervous about middle school. I'm going into the 6th grade and I'm really worried. I know I shouldn't be, but I'm going to have 6 different teachers, a locker, and a bunch of other new things. Please help!"

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292 SmartGirls replied:

15%	Find a buddy! Talk to a friend, teacher, or even someone at home. Sometimes it helps to talk to someone else about how you feel because chances are...you are not alone! Ask questions, share stories, or just vent about whatever happenned in your day. You never know, someone might have a great idea about how to keep middle school fun and not scary. And before you know it, you're new school will feel like home...and you will have a bunch of new friends to talk to!
14%	No worries! You're right, you shouldn't be too worried about middle school. Just take a deep breath, and let your worries go! Remember, most people make it through middle school in one way or another. It's usually a little scary at first, but soon enough you will wonder why you were ever worried in the first place. Try to relax and enjoy all of the exciting new things to come!
6%	Keep a journal! You could even start by making a list of all of the things that you are worried about, and then writing down all of the different ways you can overcome your fears. For example, you might be nervous about switching classes. But you can overcome this fear by finding your classes before the first day of school, asking someone where your classes are, or walking with a friend to each class. You could also make a list of all the things that you are excited about so that you can focus on those instead! It is totally normal to feel nervous about going into middle school. Keeping a journal is a great way to get all of your thoughts down, and to keep track of everything that goes on in your life!
8%	Remember who you are! Although middle school is full of changes, you can still find ways to make it feel familiar to you. Hang out with someone you already know, join an activity that you already enjoy doing, or even just bring something with you to school that reminds you of home. It can be as simple as your favorite pen, a picture of your friends, or that jacket you have had forever. Anything that makes you feel like you!

57% gave other responses. Some SmartGirls said:

It really isn't a big deal. Lots of other girls have been through middle school, and there are lots of girls going through the same thing right now. You're not alone!
Marrisa, I know how you feel. I just started a week ago! I was nervous too! But don't be scared. It is truly a lot better than Elementary school! You will have fun! There's new people that means new friends! You will do just fine!!
I'm a sophomore now so I understand your worries...My little sis just started the 6th grade so I'll tell you what I told her...Mainly just relax. Try not to overworry because stress can hurt you mentally and physically. Middle school isn't really scary...your locker combo will be hard at first but in your spare time practice on it. Also most older kids don't think much about you being new. People tell stories to scare you but they normally aren't true. The teachers wouldn't be there if they hated kids so lighten up. Most are happy to help you so give them a chance b/4 you judge them. make some new friends w/ older kids too b/c they have more experience. the first days of school jitters will soon wear off...trust me.

Thanks to all of you that gave your advice! Please give your advice for this week's issue.

The advice represented on this page is the opinion of SmartGirl users who have responded to last week's Issue of the Week. It is not the opinion of SmartGirl.org or the University of Michigan.