things i wish i knew before my SOPHOMORE YEAR of HIGH SCHOOL!! // a survival guide for 10th grade

Key wellness + self-care strategies (mental health, stress, rest)

• Protect your sleep: Go to bed even if you don’t fully understand a subject yet; review in the morning instead of late-night cramming.
• Do a short wind-down when overwhelmed:
  • Try ~5 minutes of calm meditation (even during your shower/face-washing routine).
  • Or do a walk to clear your mind.
• Use journaling + reflection: Keep a journal and document your weeks/days (plus pictures/videos) to stay grounded and preserve memories.
• Weekly “treat” for motivation: If you’re having a hard time, reward yourself at the end of the week (e.g., ice cream, baking cookies, TV time, or hanging with friends).
• Eat to feel good (not just as a reward): Aim for nutritious meals, while still allowing treats in moderation.
• Avoid burnout before junior year: Don’t overwork yourself so hard that you’re exhausted heading into the most intense year.
• Remember perspective: It’s okay to not take everything so seriously—things can change quickly, and you’re still young enough to grow and recover.
• Don’t slack, but allow rest: As a teen, schedule time to relax and be social—not just study.

Productivity + academic planning tips (build habits, study smart)

• Prioritize GPA early: Keep your grades steady in 10th grade since harder classes later can cause a drop if habits slip.
• Start/maintain good homework routines ASAP:
  • Commit to finishing a set amount of homework each night.
  • If you’re behind, it’s harder to catch up—so build consistency now.
• Review how you’ll study for a tougher schedule: Adjust your routines to match the intensity of 10th grade classes.
• Track your activities in one place: Maintain a Google doc (or similar system) listing activities, classes, and involvement for future college applications.
• Begin soft “college thinking”: Go to college fairs/mock admissions events and research programs that match your interests (no final decisions yet).
• Build extracurriculars gradually:
  • Continue sports/clubs if you can.
  • Join a club if you haven’t—preferably something not overly intense.
• Volunteer intentionally:
  • Volunteer in areas related to your interests (e.g., hospital if interested in medicine).
  • Choose one main commitment rather than trying to do everything.
• Develop study methods beyond the textbook:
  • Use tools like SparkNotes only for understanding concepts—not for writing papers or cramming everything.
  • Study with friends and use supplemental videos/resources.
• Study consistently instead of cramming: Prefer ~1 hour nightly for 5 nights over 5 hours in one night.
• Use school resources: Take advantage of the school library for reading or quiet study time.
• Communicate with teachers: Email teachers if you’re confused or concerned about grades—teachers often appreciate engagement.
• Consider AP carefully: Take AP classes if you think you can handle them; you don’t have to. Preparation can help, but don’t take on too much pressure.

Self-advocacy + planning supports (using people)

• Keep your school counselor updated:
  • Schedule appointments when you have questions about classes.
  • Inform them about schedule decisions and extracurriculars so they can support you with recommendations.
• Don’t take counselor meetings for granted: They can be a key help later for college/career guidance.

Social wellness + boundaries (reduce drama, choose good relationships)

• Be nice to everyone (while still standing up for yourself): Even if someone is mean, respond with kindness to avoid regret.
• Pick quality over quantity: Have a smaller circle of trusted friends to reduce drama.
• Avoid drama: Don’t waste energy on petty conflicts—things can change fast.
• Balance social time with alone/study time:
  • It’s okay to eat lunch alone or study if you need recovery.
  • Don’t feel pressured to socialize nonstop.
• Be careful with parties/pressure: Don’t drink or do drugs; be prepared to say no even if pressured.
• Set boundaries in dating and friendships: Respect yourself and know what you’re comfortable with before agreeing to anything.
• Communication + honesty fix problems: If there’s an issue with a friend or partner, address it directly and kindly.
• Don’t ditch friends for guys: Keep friendships a priority, especially if someone isn’t treating you well.

Productivity via involvement + leadership (resume-building)

• Seek leadership roles: Work toward positions like club officer/president/vice president, co-captain, team manager, etc.
• Try new opportunities (including sports): It’s not too late to join a sport and build toward JV/possibly varsity later.
• Avoid overcommitting: You can’t do everything—choose a few meaningful priorities.

Presenters / sources

• Primary presenter: The YouTube creator in the video (no name provided in the subtitles).
• Secondary source mentioned: The presenter’s best friend (credited for a few tips).