How to Get Ready for the First Day of School (Girls)

Co-authored by Ashley Pritchard, MA and Janice Tieperman

Last Updated: August 25, 2021 References

If you’re dealing with some back-to-school jitters, you’re definitely not alone. It’s tough settling back into a regular school routine, but the first day of school is a great way to put your best foot forward. With a few preparations, you can be on your way to looking and feeling your best before the big day!

1

Go school supply shopping.

Check if your school district has a specific school supply list. Pop by the store and pick up notebooks, loose-leaf paper, binders, markers, pens, highlighters, and anything else you’ll need for the upcoming school year. Pick out items in your favorite colors to give your school supplies an extra burst of personality.^{[1]
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- You might pick out some brightly-colored gel pens, or grab some highlighters in your favorite color.

2

Stop by school before the first day.

Walk the halls to get a feel for where you need to go. Starting a new school year can be really nerve-wracking, especially if you don’t know where exactly your classes are. Visit your school and see if you can cruise through the halls for a few minutes—this way, you can figure out a route to your classes ahead of time instead of worrying the night before.^{[2]
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Johns Hopkins Medicine
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- Some schools might offer an orientation day where you can get a feel for the building.
- Feel free to ask a teacher or other faculty member for help if you’re having some trouble navigating the hallways—they’ll be happy to help!

3

Adjust your sleep schedule before school starts.

Transition to your school routine about 2 weeks before school actually starts. Going from your summer sleep schedule back to a school routine is really tough. Over the last 2 weeks of summer, slowly adjust your sleeping schedule until you’re waking up and going to sleep at your school bedtime.^{[3]
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- Set a bedtime reminder on your phone—your phone can ping you when it’s time to wind down and go to sleep.

4

Keep your skin clear so you feel confident.

Use over-the-counter acne products with salicylic acid, Ada-Elena, or benzoyl peroxide. Acne can be frustrating to deal with, especially if you’re breaking out before school. In the days and weeks before school starts, add at-home acne treatments to your usual skincare routine.^{[4]
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- Experts agree that over-the-counter products can make a big difference if you use them regularly.

5

Pack your bag ahead of time.

Assemble everything you need so you aren’t scrambling the day before. Slide all of your notebooks, folders, and other supplies into your binder. Stick a few dollars in your bag in case of an emergency, along with a book or magazine to keep you entertained while you’re riding to school.^{[5]
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- You might pack a hairbrush and some makeup in case you’d like to touch up your look throughout the day.
- Sneak a couple of sanitary napkins or tampons into your bag in case you have your period.

6

Pick out a fun, stylish outfit.

Choose an outfit that matches your personal aesthetic. The first day of school is all about making a statement with some of your favorite clothes. Dress up in a more formal outfit, or pick out a casual outfit that you feel relaxed and comfortable in.^{[6]
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- Layer a floral dress over a solid tank top for a breezy look.
- Pair a tie-dye shirt with white pants for a chill outfit.
- Stay comfortable in a cardigan, skirt, and high top sneakers.

7

Try a natural makeup look.

Follow a tried-and-true makeup tutorial, or experiment a little. You might keep things simple with a subtle cat-eye, or add a burst of color with some bright pink lipstick. Smoky eyes or colored eyeliner are other classic ways to dress up your first-day-of-school look.^{[7]
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- A nude or coral lipstick is a simple but stylish addition to your look.
- It’s totally fine if you aren’t a big fan of makeup. Always dress in a way that helps you feel comfortable and confident.

8

Eat a healthy breakfast.

Eating breakfast comes with a ton of benefits.^{[8]
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Ashley Pritchard, MA
School Counselor
Expert Interview. 4 November 2019.} It gives your metabolism a boost and makes you less hungry throughout the day.^{[9]
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- Cooked oatmeal, a fruit smoothie, or a whole-wheat sandwich with lean meat and veggies are all great breakfast choices.^{[11]
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  Mayo Clinic
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- Frozen foods can be a great option if you’re in a rush! Egg scrambles, pre-baked muffins, and pre-made oatmeal are all excellent options.^{[12]
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9

Maintain a positive attitude.

Staying upbeat can make a big difference throughout the school year. Some students find that a positive attitude makes them efficient, and helps the time fly by. A positive attitude also uplifting to the people around you, like your friends and teachers.^{[13]
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- You could write inspirational or motivational quotes on a bunch of sticky notes and place them around your home!

10

Ask meaningful questions to the people around you.

Many people really enjoy talking about their daily lives. Strike up a conversation by inquiring about their hobbies, favorite TV show, favorite school subject, or what they like to do in their free time. Once the conversation gets going, ask some extra questions about their favorite topics.^{[14]
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- For example, if someone mentions that Gossip Girl is their favorite show, you might ask them what it’s about, or who their favorite character is.

11

Reach out to someone sitting by themselves.

The new school year can be really tough for some people. Be on the lookout for anyone sitting alone, whether it’s at lunch, during class, or some other time during the school day. Ask if you can take a seat with them and introduce yourself—this is a great way to make a new friend!^{[15]
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- It’s okay if you’re a little nervous! Try starting off the conversation with “Could I sit here?” Then, see where the conversation goes from there.