Imagine entering a new school on the first day, not knowing what to expect, where your classes are, or what lunch you have. I mean, who knows what A, B, and C lunches are? You start dreading the first day of school, but wait – you get to experience school before it even starts, ask your overwhelming questions, and meet new friends!

Freshman Orientation takes place at the end of August every year to prepare incoming freshmen for the first day of school. This year, Freshman Orientation took place on August 21, run by Project Lead members.

Mrs. Lembo, a teacher at Morris Hills, serves as the Project Lead advisor and makes sure that Freshman Orientation runs smoothly. According to Faith Bode, a member of Project Lead and the SGA vice president, “Project Lead is a group of students who show exemplary leadership. They lead events and help wherever needed. You might see project leaders helping with Orientation, Parent Night, Homecoming, fairs, graduations, and many more community events.”

In addition, Keion Andrews, the SGA President and a member of Project Lead, remarks on his experience in the group, “My experience has been very good, and I’ve had a lot of fun so far… I would recommend joining. It’s a great way to get involved in the school, help others, and develop leadership skills.”

The goal of Freshman Orientation is to “help incoming freshmen feel comfortable and welcome at school” according to Keion. Project Lead accomplishes this task by introducing freshmen to school rules, giving them a tour of the school, and helping them navigate their schedule. Orientation also allows freshmen to ask any questions they may have and meet upperclassmen who will be able to support them throughout the school year.

Freshman Orientation is a very important event in a freshman’s journey to high school. Although freshman year can be stressful, orientation helps freshmen through this difficult transitional period. Faith Bode said, “Feel free to ask project leaders for help anytime. That’s what they’re here for!”