Recent studies show that making friends in high school is more than feeling like you fit in. Academic success deeply depends on it.
Research shows that students who fit in are more likely to succeed and stay energized than students who don’t feel like they belong.
According to recent NIH research, “Peer connections and friendships often result in collaborative learning and the exchange of academic ideas improving comprehension and retention of course materials, ultimately leading to higher GPA,” meaning that students who feel more welcomed and feel like they belong tend to do better academically than students who don’t.
Schenectady high school student, Bishema Gobin, was asked how fitting in has helped her academically. She responded with, “I would say that fitting in has helped me to socialize more with my peers. Because of that, it helped to build my confidence in asking for help.”
According to Forbes 73% of students experience “moderate to high” levels of stress. Due to those stress levels students can sometimes end up dropping out of school. Having friends around can sometimes help reduce stress levels by communication, encouragement, and even reminders of the harsh reality.
Torrens University, Australia, has listed multiple ways having friends can help a student’s academics. The University suggests that studying with friends is better for a student’s mental health. In addition, more gets done, because sometimes studying alone is boring. When someone has a friend that can uplift their spirits, and can help them study.
Here at Schenectady High, Math and Writing labs and after school tutoring are available. Also, in E1 from 3:20-5:45 tutoring is available in any subject. For more information, or for questions, see your counselor..
Alternatively, students can get help with fitting in by joining clubs or sports like cheer, lacrosse, and basketball. Performance groups like theater, the Blue Roses Theater Company are a great avenue to express yourself with your peers.
There are numerous creativity classes like orchestra, band, and music production. There are also art classes like drawing, and ceramic.
You never know you might end up meeting that’s going to help you improve your academic success.
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