As a freshman, being afraid to enter a new school is completely normal, even though everyone tells you not to be. We were all in that same situation once, but as we continue to learn and grow, we have more to look forward to. Sometimes there are situations when people talk about upcoming events, clubs and school activities students or parents may not be aware about.

As a junior at Emmaus High School, I get the opportunity to share updates that may be unclear with many parents and peers.

On Sept. 9, new student mentors had their first meeting with freshmen and new students. Student mentors are upperclassmen (sophomores, juniors and seniors) that participate in helping all the new students and freshmen get settled and provide guidance throughout the year.

Mentors get to know their group of freshmen by doing fun activities and can become role models and sources of help throughout the year.

Freshmen are also able to get homework assistance through their mentors, inform them about upcoming events and allow them to ask any questions about struggles their mentors have gone through. All mentors dedicate their homeroom time once a month till the end of the school year to make sure new students and freshmen feel welcome, provided for and comfortable at EHS.

On Sept. 24, there will be an early dismissal throughout the East Penn School District. Macungie, Shoemaker, Alburtis, Jefferson, Lincoln, Willow Lane and Wescosville elementary schools will be dismissed 12:30 p.m.

EHS, Lower Macungie Middle School and Eyer Middle School will dismiss 11 a.m.

On Oct. 11, EHS will hold the yearly homecoming dance in the main gym, auxiliary gym and the courtyard. Doors will open 5:30 p.m. and the dance will begin 6 p.m. The homecoming spirit week will take place Oct. 6-10 alongside the pep rally Oct. 10. Check the Schoology updates for the themes to participate.

If a student is struggling in one of their classes, EHS offers free tutoring after school 2:30-3:30 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday in the school library. This is a great opportunity for students to get help with homework, study for exams or improve their skills on the subject they are struggling with. The late bus is offered to students and leaves 3:15 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. If students were to stay longer, they would need to find transportation home.

Some of the clubs offered at EHS are Astronomy Club, Future Business Leaders of America, The Stinger, Yearbook Club, Academics Club, Interact Club, Kid to Kid, Habitat for Humanity, East Penn Fly Fishing Club, and many more. If a student is interested in any of the numerous clubs EHS offers, they should ask peers, teachers and counselors on how to get involved. Clubs are one of the best ways to get involved in the school community, teaches responsibility and allows students to have fun.

As the school year kicks off, remember to study hard to succeed and the friends you surround yourself with is the person you will become. Make sure to check Schoology updates daily. Make the most out of your time and build off the experiences to grow and shape your high school journey.