Seminar Program Proves Useful for Incoming Freshmen

This year’s seminar program for incoming ninth graders at Huntington High School provided three days of valuable activities. The 14th annual initiative’s goal was to provide students with tools essential to their transition into the building.

This year’s seminar ran for three hours per day on each of three days. The fourth day was reserved for an orientation program for all incoming freshmen. The participating teacher-advisors included Suzi Biagi, Tara Rossy, Elizabeth Casazza, Rosario Lorenzana, Eileen Gonzales, Marlo Romero, Lorena Diaz, Kelly Quintero, Debra Cheskes, Sarah Guagliano, Jennifer Savalli and Luigi Papasidero.

The program attracted 121 members of the Class of 2028. It encompassed getting to know each other, meeting their freshman seminar advisors that they will work with all year and an assortment of activities to help prepare them for their high school experience. Snacks and lunches were served daily.

Seminar topics included everything from getting to know each another, the process of self-assessment, learning styles and how to use them to the best of one’s ability to study skills and time management.

The ninth graders were also interested in hearing about the extracurricular clubs and sports teams available to high school students. Perhaps the best part was hearing from an alum who shared a series of “if I knew then what I know now” segments, including “don’t slack off especially freshman and then senior year; go to extra help; take advantage of the library and the resources available to you throughout the school; these ladies will help you get yourself on a good path; don’t be late; don’t argue, just hand over the phone; have a safe adult you can turn to; get involved in clubs and don’t delay on college applications.”

There were discussions on peer pressure, bullying, staying safe, available school resources, “go-to” people, lockers, schedules, goal setting, organizational tips and career exploration

On the first day, students shared their goals and anxieties, “discovering they really all did have something in common,” Ms. Biagi said. “The group explored the best ways they learn and their studying routines.”

Day No. 2 focused on learning styles and “multiple intelligences.” Students learned the best way to study for their particular style along with memory “tricks.”

The third day of the seminar program was “super busy” and featured a round of Huntington High School Survivor, a team building activity and a photo scavenger hunt that allowed participants to explore the building.

“This year, three current upper class persons volunteered for the three days and were instrumental in helping with everyday operations of the program and sharing their high school experiences,” Ms. Biagi said. “A shout out to seniors Katherine Bonilla and Kiana Alfaro and junior Anis Oyuela. They were all fantastic, allowing for freshman questions throughout.” The program on Friday culminated with a school supplies giveaway and Jonny D’s pizza.

“When we asked, the attendees shared that they loved learning about the expectations of high school, how to organize, where to go when they need assistance with something, that the adults are here for them, how to use their unique learning styles to their advantage and how to navigate the school,” Ms. Biagi said. “Some of their favorite activities were the scavenger hunt, study skills bingo, HHS Survivor and learning about the clubs and sports available to participate in.”

Student “takeaways” from the program included:

• Don’t be afraid to ask for help.

• Try your best and as long as you work hard, know that things will get better.

• Don’t slack off.

• Use your resources.

• Be kind; don’t be lazy.

• Walk with confidence.

• The teachers are here for you.

• You will do great!

• Join clubs and sports because being involved in the school is important and will help.