Grade 11 is challenging and I would be lying if I never wished someone who had already done the program could help me. Whether this be in terms of academic help or just someone who would understand my incessant complaining. But, when everything started getting more comfortable, I realised I could easily find help (as a DP1 student) from DP2 students and it really helped me. So, I have compiled ways for DP1 students to connect with their upperclassmen and get help and resources.
Why should you network with Upperclassmen? Well anything you struggle with, they likely have as well. This can apply to academics, emotions, college applications, etc. For this reason they can give you advice so you don’t have to suffer needlessly such as subject tips. Similarly, they can be mentors in other ways. If you’re being bullied by organic chemistry, they can help you. Also, you could try and set up free tutoring on some subjects (if they need a CAS activity).
Arguably the most important step is identifying the right people to approach. For the most part looking for people with the same subjects and interests will be best as you have things to talk about. This ensures you can build a connection and feel comfortable asking for things. An easy way to do this is to pursue group clubs, organisations or school run programs or ask your friends who do to ask for you or introduce you. In the same vein, you can ask teachers, advisors and peers for recommendations of who to ask, especially since some people are better than others at forming connections and may already know the relevant upperclassmen.
Some tips to be effective when first approaching upperclassmen help it be less daunting and help you make valuable connections and access resources. In the best case scenario, you will be able to engage in a conversation naturally through friends or because you know them already but not always. To initiate contact, respectfully initiate contact by introducing yourself politely in an appropriate moment like during lunch. An amiable greeting such as, “Hi, I’m [Your Name], a Grade 11 student. I’ve heard you’re really good at [subject/activity], and I was wondering if you could help me with [specific request],” shows respect for their time as DP2 students. Specific requests such as could you send me your notes on a specific subtopic or recommend teaching materials for integration techniques are the least taxing and the most likely to be accepted. Likewise, social media, school email and other digital platforms are also effective and better if you aren’t comfortable with the in-person approach.The same idea that you should eEnsure your message is concise and respectful applies here. For example, “Hi [Upperclassman’s Name], I’m [Your Name], a Grade 11 student. I’ve heard great things about your [subject/activity] skills and was wondering if you could help me with [specific request]. Thanks for your time!” These strategies will make it easier to get the assistance you need while building positive and mutually beneficial relationships.
For the long term, a positive relationship is crucial for gaining ongoing support and mentorship. One of the easiest ways to do this is to show your gratitude for any help you receive. This can be by thanking them sincerely in person or with a follow-up text, to show you value their assistance. Offer to help in return by contributing to group projects, sharing resources, or assisting with extracurricular activities where you have expertise, creating a more balanced and supportive dynamic. Finally, maintain regular communication so it is less exploitative by updating them on your progress, like sharing your improved test scores, and checking in periodically for advice or to share interesting resources. These strategies foster mutual respect and cooperation, ensuring you receive continuous support while building a strong, beneficial network.
Something you can do to both form and maintain connections is creating study groups. It may sound strange because you are covering different content but at the end of the day you need to know all of it. If you have a particularly hard subject that many people struggle with, you can advertise it with posters around the school to collect DP1 and DP2 students. The same applies for other clubs and groups which can allow you to explore your interests and also improve your college applications/personal statement. These ideas allow opportunities for collaborative learning through study sessions and group projects, supporting your social and academic lives.
In conclusion, DP1 is a very challenging experience but you can lighten the burden by connecting with DP2 students who have encountered the same struggles as you. They will be able to give you invaluable advice on academics, mental health, university applications, etc. Identifying and approaching the right upperclassmen through clubs, organisations, and recommendations from teachers or peers can lead to supportive connections. Effective communication (both digital and in-person) will allow you to build and maintain these connections as well. Expressing gratitude and offering your own help will allow you to maintain these friendships. Best of luck!
