As the school year draws to a close, East students look forward to a summer of freedom, having emerged from this scholarly year a little bit older, and a little bit wiser. The classes of 2019, 2018 and 2017 are preparing to re-enter East in the fall, while the class of 2016 moves on to bigger and better pursuits.  But what about the class of 2020? In the fall, they will enter Cherry Hill East for the very first time and have to learn for themselves all the tips and tricks that go into surviving an average day at East. We all figured East’s quirks out for ourselves as freshmen – for some, the learning process was easier than for others. So what are the most important things for incoming freshmen to know?

1. Find out which water fountains work the best, which ones give the coldest water, which ones taste odd and which ones don’t work at all. The fountain in D-Wing gives especially good water, probably because hydration is so important to singers and performers.
2. Figure out the fastest route between all of your classes. There are only four minutes between each bell, so it’s important to use them wisely.
3. Get involved. There are so many unique clubs at East, from sports to cultural organizations to performing-arts groups, and everything in between. The more clubs students try, the more opportunities they will have to find one which they really like.
4. Know your limits. Some students are able to stay up until 3 a.m. every day doing their homework and still thrive; some go to bed at a more reasonable hour but swear by their study hall; others might do all of their homework doing the weekends. Everyone’s limits and habits are different so It’s important to know how much time it takes for you to study and under what circumstances you work best, so that you don’t overload yourself with courses and extracurricular activities.
5. Know who your real friends are. High school can be a turbulent time, so it’s important to maintain good relationships with good people who make you feel loved and accepted. However, relationships can also create drama and turbulence. As you navigate a new, complex social scene, remember to always love yourself and to look for people who accept you the way you are and respect your needs and values. Friendships should feel like fun to have, not like a chore to maintain!

Welcome and good luck, Class of 2020! We can’t wait to meet you!