The transition from eighth grade to freshman year is a big leap for many students. Freshmen have to deal with the move to high school and all of the new stressors that accompany it.
Introductory programs such as Link Crew help freshmen get to know the school and some of the upperclassmen without the pressure of having the entire student body clogging up the hallways.
Most freshmen report that Link Crew was a positive experience, and they appreciated the chance to meet and form friendships with upperclassmen.
“I thought they [the Link Crew leaders] were very welcoming and understanding. Having a senior link crew leader helped me to be able to interact with other seniors I met later in the year,” said freshman Jini Stupak.
Outside of Link Crew, upperclassmen try to interact with freshmen in the hallways or in classes and make them feel welcome.
“I use my goofy self to keep a good mood and let them know I’m here to help,” said senior Jordan Haas.
Some upperclassmen provide advice to freshmen about what activities to join.
“I would invite them to all of the cool clubs at Lakeridge, such as Model United Nations club and multicultural club,” said junior Celeste Nahas.
Joining a sports team or a club is also a great way for freshmen to mingle with upperclassmen.
“I joined Hide and Go Seek club and Key Club. I met new people in the clubs,” said Stupak.
Freshman Michael Kiever met many new people through sports.
“I met people through football and they are all very nice because we play the same sport,” said Kiever.
Though upperclassmen are usually stereotyped as bullies, at LHS they seem to genuinely care about making freshmen seem welcome.
“I thought the upperclassmen would exclude us, but instead they got to know us better. I talk to some of them outside of school,” said Stupak.
Freshmen meet upperclassmen not only through Link Crew but also in multi-grade classes.
“Having elective classes with a variety of people helped a lot for meeting new people,” said Stupak.