Advice for Brand New Bengals

The 400 members of 's class of 2015 will be happy to hear that freshman year is pretty simple, really.

"Be careful what you think current hairstyles are," jokes Psychology teacher Eric Mollin, thinking of his own high school hairstyle.

"What you do in the next four years will affect you for the next 40," said social studies teacher Ed Lipowski, of learning habits and involvement.

Develop good habits, Mollin said, because what you do now will pay off later. Find your work ethic. Get involved.

And most importantly, don't panic. (Yes, even if your locker won't open.)

"Every single person in this building will have a smile on our face and be ready to help," Mollin said.

"We realize, if we make you comfortable today, it will make it easier for you," Lipowski added.

The freshmen will roam the halls alone their first day Wednesday, before fellow Bengals join them Thursday. Most are quick to learn their way around the school, but some might hit a few bumps in the road—like a class where they feel out of place.

Teachers, guidance counselors and other staff will stand in hallways, ready to help.

"It'll be nostalgic—I'll be opening a lot of lockers," said Mollin.

Guidance counselor Lori Shemoski had her own pointers for the newbies.

• Set goals. Write them down. Put them somewhere you can see them, everyday. Make them specific, geared toward academics and activities.
• Set aside time for homework from the beginning. Get into a groove and set your daily schedule with plenty of time for homework and studying.
• Get involved. Who you are coming into this is a brand new you. No one knows you. Define (or re-define) yourself.
• Don't be nervous about being nervous. Everybody is. Look at people. Make eye contact.
• Need help? Just ask. Everyone can, and will, help. Worried you're in the wrong class? Maybe you're in an honors-level course, but you shouldn't be? Ask your guidance counselor.