<p>So, as you may be able to tell by my username, I was a new junior at my boarding school this year. First off, let me say, I love it. I've made lots of friends, guys and girls, and everyone is really nice! There's a lot of homework but it gets done! I DO want to point some stuff out to anyone who may be starting school as a new sophomore, junior, senior, or PG though. Personally, I'm pretty good at meeting people and I've done fine. If I was shyer, though,it would not work out well. You have to get out there and get involved. I auditioned for both small chorus and the play, knowing I wouldn't get into either (I didn't) but just thinking that I would even meet people at auditions and that if I did make it, I would meet even more people. I'm definitely going to join some clubs, and I'm on cross country. The team is awesome! I have noticed that out of all the new juniors, there are a few who aren't very involved and they haven't made many friends outside of the OTHER new juniors, so I would really suggest getting involved in SOMETHING. I assure you, most schools will have some club, sport, or organization you will like. Also, you can't be afraid, if you just recognize one person at a table, to go and sit and talk to them. Even if you don't recognize anyone, you don't look weird or friendless. You just look new. I honestly think this was the best decision of my life- where else could I have someone from Albania in my physics class, and someone from France AND someone else from Switzerland in my French class? My roommate is from England, my friends come from all over New England, America, the globe. One of my good friends is a Thai Scholar...aka she's one of the smartest kids in Thailand, and the Thai government pays for her to come here. And don't listen to the stereotypes when you get there. People told me that the other juniors in my dorm were cliquey and that the junior guys were jerks. Some of those girls ARE cliquey, but not all, and some of the junior guys ARE jerks, but some of them are my best friends here. Also, the classes are harder but manageable. I actually LIKE my classes, quite a bit.</p>
<p>So if you're nervous about being a new kid in an awkward grade that ISN'T a freshman, don't worry! It's so fine, everyone is incredibly sweet. Don't just hang out with the other new kids either. Meet EVERYONE. Oh, and the good thing about being new at an older age? People are really curious about you. I've had people actually seek me out and say "OH you're the new junior!" </p>
<p>I hope I helped! Happy applying!</p>