Being new was truly terrifying.
Moving from one continent to another was exciting but also stomach-churning. Leaving everything and everyone I knew for a new start was absolutely terrifying. I have never experienced so much fear and this is coming from someone who sat on a crocodile during a school trip. This isn’t a hyperbole and I have the picture to prove it!
For a few hours before I left home for my first day, I wanted to hide underneath my bed. Socialising has never been one of my strongest points and a new school is the ultimate battleground.
I was scared about what people were going to think of me. I was worried about not being able to fit in at school. Worrying if I was smart enough and qualified to be in Bloomfield scared me the most.
I managed to get out of bed and out of the house. I climbed on to the bus all by myself for the very first time and it was utterly nerve-wrecking.
At Ballyhackamore, I didn’t know where to go so I followed all the girls whose uniforms looked like leaves. I couldn’t see any familiar faces and I was scared out of my mind. The Hunger Games had begun.
I stood in the hall, confused and worried, until a girl approached me. She was short with brown hair and was very nice. She said my name without even asking me for it. I was shocked because I hadn’t whispered my name to anyone. It made me feel good that someone had taken the time to learn I was the new girl in Bloomfield. Thank you, Katy! She helped me get over the fact that I was lonely and didn’t know anybody.
Where I come from, there was no such thing as a ‘form room’. Mrs Hutchinson, our Head of Year, introduced me to my new classmates and made me feel very welcome. When I told people I was from Africa, I have never seen more wide-eyed, fascinated faces in my entire life. There were so many questions!
Once I talked to my fellow year 10s, I knew I would be fine.
Rachael G, who was so bubbly and nice, helped me navigate the school and get to my classes on time. In History class, I met the wonderful Jessica S and realised other people shared my worries about new classes and teachers.
Most of the day was a blur and everything moved so quickly. I have never been a master at remembering anything and so the memories are very vague, but I will never forget the warm welcome I received in Bloomfield.
Lianne M. (Y10)
