1. A proper diet is necessary to be successful in school. Noah Polk’s mom explains, “If a child eats properly, it helps them focus.” Her 16-year-old son attends Urban Prep. 2. Noah’s mom also suggests that students ask their teachers for one-on-one time more frequently if they are having trouble or struggling with class work. It’s better to ask for help than fall behind. 3. Brian Woodson of Gage Park High School feels that students should be on time every day in order to have a successful school year. Set your alarm clock a few minutes fast to trick yourself into leaving on time! 4. Another tip Brian Woodson shares with his peers is to always be prepared everything. Pop quizzes are no fun, but you can be ready by doing your homework and staying up to date with assignments. 5. Derion Cherry, an incoming freshman at Chicago Military Academy, says, “I sit in the front of the class.” It’s the best way to avoid distractions and pay attention to the teacher. 6. “Keep your eyes on the prize, which is the diploma,” explains Aremie Cosey of Dyett High School. She claims that this will help you stay successful in school. 7. Aremie also states that it’s a good idea to stay away from things that get you off the path of success. “Avoid bad influences!” she exclaims. Drugs, gangs and fighting can throw you off track.
8. During the school year, it’s always important to keep things organized. Cynthia Alston, who attends Dunbar Career Academy, advises that you “keep a personal planner.” 9. Never give up on your dreams no matter how hard the journey can be. Cynthia says, “Keep trying until you succeed.” 10. Lazy slackers don’t make it far. Cory Foundren from Hyde Park Academy says, “Give your all in every class.” He feels you can accomplish anything with just a little effort. 11. Cory also suggests that you resist the temptations that others force on you. “Don’t fall victim to peer pressure!” he advises. Peers sometimes try to pull you into their schemes and troublemaking—don’t be persuaded! 12. “Just stay relaxed,” suggests Joa’chima Ross of Dyett High School. School can be stressful. If you worry too much, it makes focusing much harder. Chill out! 13. Joa’Chima also thinks it’s a bad idea to rush everything. He says, “Slow down, take your time and just let things come to you.” 14. Aerial Hemphill from Harper High School thinks that maintaining a good social life is helpful to your academic life. Her tip: “Build positive relationships with people.” That means friends, teachers, coaches and anyone else you can think of!
15. Aerial also advises that students don’t allow these relationships, friendly or romantic, to become distractions. She asserts, “Make sure you can balance your relationships and school work.” 16. Vlade Jones from Tilden Career Community Academy says students should “stay active.” Join a sports team, run around with friends and just stay in motion. Staying in good shape builds confidence and keeps you healthy. 17. George Covington, who attends Mona Shores High School, says, “Find out your academic strengths and weaknesses.” Knowing what you’re already good at and what you need to work on is a key factor to improving your grades. 18. “Set goals and aim high,” George recommends. It’s better to set really high standards for yourself. If you really want it, you’ll work hard to get it. 19. Trumane Tompkins from Urban Prep says, “Go to bed early!” We know it’s cool to stay up late and have fun, but your education is too important to neglect. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep every night. 20. Rachelle Herrera from Kenwood Academy High School says, “Study every day.” Even though it may seem boring, you need to study in order to understand your academic material better. –DCX DIMECHILD.ORG
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