How To Fit In At Your New School

Here's How:

1. Don't be shy! This is easier said than done for many people but it is essential. Even if you are painfully shy by nature you are in a new environment and nobody at your new school know about your shyness. So put on a big smile and start out by being friendly to everybody you see.
2. Introduce yourself to people when you find a seat in class. Sit down in a place where you feel comfortable (yes, the back of the class is OK) and make a point if saying hello to the people sitting near. A good opening line; "Hi, my name is Joe and I'm new here. Do you know, is this teacher any good?"
3. Find your niche group. Look for the type of people you were friends with in your old school and approach them. Ask if you can join them for lunch or during class look to pair up with somebody from that group. Believe it or not the majority of teens are more than happy to make a new friend.
4. Join a club or a team. This is the easiest way to meet people at a new school (or meet new people at your old school) because while being an organized event it is in a much more casual setting than the classroom. You get a chance to spend time with peers who have similar interests to yours and you get to bond with them in a more laid back environment.
5. Don't be afraid to stand out. If you are good at a certain sport or do well in a certain subject don't be afraid to strut yourself. People are drawn to people with talent and stifling yours to avoid being a show-off will only end up hurting you. So if you have a special talent or skill make it known.
6. Be mindful of prosocial norms at your school. This simply means try to fit in by observing the positive norms at your school. If your new school is a big football school become a fan. If your school is more academically inclined join a study group. Find out what makes your school tick and join in the fun.