Written by Eliana Chefitz ’28
What were your feelings first coming into the Berman Upper School? I have been going to Berman since I was in two-year-old nursery, and three of my siblings graduated from Berman. Advancing to high school sounds easy, but it may not be so simple. There are a lot of new faces and challenges, but aside from this change, there are also a lot of new opportunities. Arriving in high school can provide a space where it is healthy to have a fresh start and take time to discover ourselves.
Being nervous starting high school is natural, but there are also a variety of aspects of high school to get excited about. Asking students or alumni about their favorite classes or events at Berman is an amazing way to start getting enthusiastic for the upcoming school year. Maya August ’23 remembers the community most of all. “My favorite thing about the Berman Upper School was that everyone there was one big family,” she said. “The teachers, the students, the administrators created such a fun and loving environment and only wanted the best for one another.”
There is no need to be nervous about the social aspects of high school. Sometimes I used to think, what if the teachers or kids are rude, but now I know that the high school environment can be whatever I need it to be for myself. August’s main advice to incoming freshmen is to “Live every moment to the fullest. Say yes to every positive opportunity and do it all with a smile. Have fun and be friends with everyone.” Just like August said, opening up to new people is an incredibly important factor to make new friends. In the past, Berman has been a place where many of my friendships have began. As an incoming freshman myself, my advice is to move forward with an open mind. Do not be afraid to take advantage of all the opportunities available.
One of the many new opportunities in high school are the special events and programs. Eitan Schwartz ’26 notes, “My favorite thing about the Upper School is the events that we have where everyone in the high school shows up and participates like Chagigah, BOTG, Shabbaton, et cetera.” Berman has more than classes and tests. The school provides a handful of super fun activities that make Berman what it is. All of these activities give us the opportunity to connect with students in our grade and the whole high school community.
Another thing to get you excited rather than nervous is school supplies. Being prepared with the necessities can be a calm way to start your year. Schwartz’s advice is, “Make sure that you are organized and do not be afraid to ask for help.” Finding your own organizing method takes some time, but once you dedicate time to learning what works best for you, everything falls into place. One huge advantage of high school is that the school doesn’t give you a list of the supplies you need. Take the opportunity to choose for yourself. Preparing school supplies is a great way to take the stress off of school.
Going up to high school can be challenging, but you have the ability to make it exciting. Change is never easy, but hearing advice from other students can help ease the transition. Berman provides a unique high school experience that should not be wasted. The next time you get nervous, remember all of the amazing things to look forward to, and you will be surprised at how fun this year will be!
