JUPITER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, NOVEMBER 18, 2022 – Dr. Vizcaya gives advice to all high schoolers but specifically freshmen.
Doctor Vizcaya shared valuable insights for high school students, specifically for JCS freshmen. Her first piece of advice is to be organized, not only by prioritizing work but also with time. Especially because it is the first year of high school, learning time management early is imperative. Managing your time is important so that you do not have to do things at the last minute. Also having time to relax is especially important. She believes the most challenging academic year of high school is freshman year because there are so many changes and an increase in workload. A study method that worked for Dr. Vizcaya was organizing her material in a way that made sense to her. She explained how everyone is a different type of learner and the most important thing we can do is identify the way we learn best. Once you figure that out, it can cut the studying time in half.
She also thinks that sophomore year is important since at that point, students will start looking at colleges and choosing their majors. To prepare for college everyone needs to look at what they want to do in the future as their careers.
“If you know you want to pursue something in science you want to start loading up in those classes. If you think maybe you want to go into writing or law or a different field you can tailor your schedule to build your application for college in a way that reflects your dedication and commitment to that field.”
Dr. Vizcaya thinks that colleges look for applicants that are well-rounded – not simply good grades but volunteer work and being involved in school events too. “And if you are an athlete, being good at whatever you play helps,” she says. Having a wellbalanced social and academic life will make you seem more appealing to colleges.
Another aspect of doing well in high school is getting adequate sleep. Dr. Vizcaya simply thinks, “High schoolers don’t get enough sleep. Students need to understand that their brain needs to replenish.”
As high school students, we juggle a lot – our classes, families, friends, college planning, and in some cases even jobs. But with the support and encouragement of teachers and peers, we can succeed together!
