Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year! There is so much to look forward to this year no matter what grade you may be in. My name is Matt Pra, and I am pumped to be this year’s new editor in chief for Drumbeats. I joined during my sophomore year and right away, I fell in love with writing about a variety of different topics. My goal is to get more students involved in reading (and writing!) our newspaper this year. There is a lot of time and effort put into all of our issues and seeing people read our paper warms our hearts.
Everyone is welcome to join the club no matter if you are a sports player, STEM lover, or musician; there is always something for everyone to write about. You can also create your own ideas if there is something you would personally like to write about. Take it from me: I play two sports (and yes, I do have a life outside of school), but I decided to join the club to write about my favorite sports and movies. Most importantly, I write about what it is that I want to write about.
But enough about Drumbeats and myself, it’s time to focus our attention onto you, the reader. New school, new schedule, new opportunities, new worries – there are many different things that may be running through your mind, but I’m here to help you adjust!
Some struggles I had during my first week as a freshman consisted of not knowing where to go, not being friendly enough to teachers, and feeling too stranded about being in a new school. I was lost too many times to count the first time I stepped into Indian Hills. Every hallway looked the same and I felt like I was walking in one big loop. Here’s a tip that I didn’t know: even-numbered hallways (200 wing, 400 wing, etc.) are upstairs, and odd-numbered hallways are downstairs. During the first day of school, there were senior ambassadors around every corner in case there was anyone in need of directions. Now, a few days into the school year, there are still upperclassmen and teachers present in the hallways willing to help if needed. The important part is: don’t be afraid to ask!
I cannot stress this enough: Be friendly and kind towards your teachers! Teachers don’t just evaluate your academic skills with numbers that lead to a letter grade, they are also human beings who want you to succeed just as much as you do. I wish I had connected more with my teachers during my freshman year, as I had during my junior year. It made my academic life more enjoyable and I felt like I learned more than what I was used to. Even if you don’t typically like your teacher or their teaching styles, fake it til’ you make it. You’d be surprised how it may work out in your favor.
Even though high school is stressful at first, it will be okay in the end. Relaxing and remaining calm is one of the most important qualities to have during your first weeks at Indian Hills. By the end of your first month or so, you will more than likely know where everything is, so don’t stress yourself out too much now. Make sure to plan out what kind of classes you would like to take in the future with your parents to ensure your four years of high school go just the way you want. Remember, everyone in your grade around you is also new to the school and just as confused as you are. Be open to everyone, make new friends – but don’t forget the old ones – and don’t worry, just be happy!