1. Get a Homework Routine: Make sure you have a space and time set aside to do your
    homework each day. It seems like a no-brainer, but if you get into a routine of when and
    where you do your homework, the how (how well that is) will be a piece of cake.

2. Read: As we get older, we don't read as much. You do have to read the boring stuff at
   school. But on your own time, read whatever you want. Read magazines, books,
   newspapers, internet articles. There are more things going on in the world besides Jersey
   Shore and Lady Gaga. Expand your mind!

3. Think about college:

    Freshman: Research schools that pique your interest based on what you think you want
    to study when you get there.

    Sophomores: Visit colleges and take the PSAT. You can retake these tests. The pratice will
    help you with the real test.

    Juniors: Take the real SAT and ACT exams. You can take them again your senior year if
    you are not happy with your scores. Talk to college kids and learn from their experiences.
    Take college classes at a Junior or Community College.

    Seniors: Apply to schools as early as possible. You could get an acceptance letter in the
    fall, so that in May, you can confidently walk across the stage knowing the college you will
    attend. Spend a weekend with a friend or relative in college to gain first hand experience.

4. Be Responsible: Complete class work, homework, and extra credit on time. You have to 
   go to school. Be productive while you are there. You only hurt yourself when you aren't.

5. Get Involved: It is never too late to join an organization or volunteer after school. This is
    not only a good way to develop great life skills. It also looks good on college applications.

6. Be Active: Even if you are not an athlete, you can still be physically fit. Local recreation
    centers, YMCAs, and gyms offer fun classes like yoga, zumba, and weight lifting. Try a
    class for fun, you may like it.

7. Be Social: This does not mean during class while the teacher is teaching! Between classes,
    after school, while volunteering or participating in student organizations are great times
    to make friends. Some friends will last a lifetime.

8. Stay Positive: Surround yourself with positive people. Every day is a gift. You don't want   
    to waste your days being upset about what someone has said or done. Sure, negative
    things will happen, but try to focus on the good that can come from bad experiences. 

9. Enjoy Your Youth: Don't be in such a hurry to grow up. Some teens don't have a choice
   due to circumstances beyond their control. They are forced to grow up fast. Right now,
   you've got it made having no responsibilities other than yourself. Many adults would love to
   trade places with you.

10. Celebrate: This does not mean party all the time. Celebrate the small things like earning
     an A on a math test or making the cheerleading squad. You work hard and its okay to
     reward yourself for the hard work you do.

Get a full calendar of to do's for the school year by checking out STRYVE Magazine at a school near you!

                                                                                                - Sharia Jefferson