Instead of being the ones thrown in the trash can, freshmen at Bear River have the opportunity to throw away their fears as they step into a new world.

Think back to when you were a freshman — maybe it was a long time ago, or maybe it was only recently. Do you remember what your biggest fear was? The Class of 2022 shared some of the apprehensions they faced as they entered high school.

“My first day on campus, not knowing anything about high school, or knowing where to go, it was scary,” said Freshman Samuel (Chase) Milligan. “Kids starting rumors about me was another one of the things I was worried about coming into high school.”

Several other freshmen also mentioned a predominant fear of getting lost.

“I was scared that I wouldn’t be able to find my classes on the first day of school, and that I wouldn’t have any friends in my classes,” said Freshman Jeffrey Byrom.

“On the first day of school I walked into the wrong class and I sat down, got everything out, and then I realized that it wasn’t my class,” said Freshman Grace Barraza. “I was so embarrassed.”

Going right along with the fear of stepping into the wrong classroom was the fear of stepping into a classroom full of strangers. Bruins hoped that they would retain their middle school friendships, but that these relationships often ended, or at least changed, as they transitioned into high school.

“I was scared that I would lose all my friends from before,” said Freshman Leslie Ibanez.

Some were scared of being bullied for being a freshman.

“I was scared that the seniors would stomp all over us freshmen,” said Bryom.

Others felt the same way.

“I was worried that, as freshmen, we would get bullied,” said Ibanez.

Many students had the fear that they took the wrong classes or will fail the classes they took.

“I was really worried about being late to my classes, but I realized that it’s not that big of a deal,” said Freshman Daniel Bamber. “I am scared about failing a class as well.”

Freshman Maya Cruz agreed with Bamber.

“I am scared that I might be late to some of my classes,” said Cruz. “I was scared that I might not be able to catch up to the curriculum, and that I might fall behind.”

Former Bear River Principal, Dr. Amy Besler, talked about what she thought the freshmen’s biggest fears would be. 

“I think freshmen are probably initially most worried about getting lost! After they find their classes on the first day, they are typically worried about managing their academics as well as trying to make friends and figure out how and where they fit into our culture.”

Dr. Besler had full confidence in the Class of ’22 and gave them some advice on how to be more comfortable as Bruins.

“I feel very confident in [them] and their ability to not just adapt to Bear River, but to also contribute wonderful things to it,” said Dr. Besler. “I believe that the quicker they get involved in things that are going on … the quicker they will feel comfortable, happy, confident, and connected. It’s always helpful to find people you can talk to about your worries, whether that be a friend, family member, or staff member here at Bear River. Believe it or not, other people worry about and struggle with many of the same concerns you have. Another way to combat worries is to find activities that you enjoy and focus some of your energy on those — this can take your mind off what is bothering you and help you see that there are lots of positive things happening in your life, too.”