As the class of 2026 transitions into their first year of high school, they must also transition into a new and more rigorous workload. In addition to this, they have an increased amount of pressure to have good grades. The combination of these two factors, result in a change of study habits and increased levels of stress. So, how are these freshmen handling the workload so far?

Expectedly, there is more work than in junior high, but many are staying afloat due to revamped study habits. More time both at home working and in study hall at school is the clear path to success. Mike Aamoth, freshman student-athlete, has found his stride this school year. “The overall workload in freshman year is not overwhelming, but is significantly increased from the BSM junior high. I am getting more homework this year and it takes me more time to do it, but I believe I have managed the workload well after I had adjusted to it,” Aamoth said in an email interview.

Now is the time for these students to apply their study habits learned in years prior. Freshmen are naturally adjusting to the increased workload, using their time wisely to study for more difficult tests. The utilization of studying through online sources like Quizlet has been helpful. Patrick McDonald, class of 2026, has a different approach to studying than during his days in the BSM Junior High. “I would say I’ve changed a lot, working harder and doing different things to study like teachers post a lot of study games online and stuff,” McDonald said.

Overall, the class of 2026 has thrived in their new academic environment. They’ve handled the workload and some have even found classes they enjoy. Different from junior high, students are able to choose many different classes in high school, leading to more opportunities for enjoyment. Students can take an array of classes such as band, 3D art, ceramics, engineering, and biomedical science as an underclassman at Benilde. One specific student’s most enjoyed class is Engineering 1 with Charles Nepomuceno. “My favorite class I take right now is Engineering. I am interested by the tasks we are doing and appreciate the independence I have in the class,” Aamoth said.

There may be more homework assignments and more stress involved in school than most are used to, but Freshmen have found their fit at Benilde-St. Margaret’s. Homework and studying have been managed and dealt with, and some are even able to find enjoyment with their class choices in the transition. “The work I am doing this year is much more challenging than it was in the junior high, but I find many of my current classes more engaging than the classes in junior high,” Aamoth said.