| Editor's Note: If you would like to submit a question to Deborah, email info@athenamagazineforgirls.com with "Dear Deborah" in the subject line or complete the form below. Not all questions can be answered, however, if your question is chosen, only your first name, age, and state will be published. Dear Deborah, My family moved this summer so I'm going to a new school in the fall. I used to go to a small school but now I'm in a city and I don't know my way around and I don't know anyone. Can you help? Mia, 15, New York Hi Mia! Switching schools (not to mention locations) can certainly be a scary time. While it may feel a bit strange at first, try to think of your experience as a fresh start. While city life and the city school experience may be different from what you know, they can also offer a lot of new things that can enrich your life (i.e. diverse populations, unique cultural institutions, excellent academic and extracurricular opportunities). For now, I’d check out your local paper or drop in at the local library, community center or religious institution to find out what is happening in your area. This will not only help you learn your way around, but will also help you to learn about the place you live. Look for opportunities to partake in local happenings. When you start school in the fall, you may feel overwhelmed. (If your transition is anything like mine, you might even wonder how you will navigate around a larger school!) Take your time, a deep breath and give yourself a chance. Be proactive about joining clubs, a sports team, the theatre group, or volunteer organizations—if you do what interests you, you’ll likely find people that interest you as well. Rest assured in due time you will feel at home in your new home. Good luck!! Keep us posted!! ~ Deborah |
 | |  | |  | |  | |  | |  |
| To submit a question to "Dear Deborah" fill out the following form and press submit. |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |