Consultation Column

If you have a good job with good benefits, but hate it, what should you do?
If you are unhappy, then that should be a major red flag. Your mental and emotional state is way more important than money.

All my friends are chasing chicks – how do I get them to stop?
Well, you need to be direct and tell them that girls deserve more respect than what they are giving them. Girls aren’t supposed to be looked at as objects made for men’s personal gain. And if they are only out to “hook up” with girls, then they are self-conscious and only care about themselves and are incapable of putting someone else’s needs before theirs. I would tell them that 🙂

How do I get rid of stress headaches?
If these have been occurring for a while, consider consulting your local doctor. Most of the time, stress headaches occur from trying to do way more than you can handle! Take a step back from a bunch of responsibilities, and put aside some time every day to do what you love doing the most. Hope this helps!

How do you know if you’re in love?
Honestly, you will only know if you meet the right person. If you are doubting the fact that you might be in love, then you most likely aren’t.

What do I do if I don’t think I’m going to get into college?
Don’t panic! First, know that your feelings of insecurity are not unique; I think every senior has had this thought at least at one point this year. Second, don’t forget that community college is always an option; I know it’s usually not the first choice, but it is financially the better decision!

My boyfriend is a jerk, but I want to be with him still. We’re having a break right now, but I want to text him. What should I say? Should I even text him?
Take some time to think about your choices. Which is more important, your wellbeing or this guy who doesn’t care enough to be nice to you? It’s understandable that it is difficult to leave someone you care about, but really take some time to think about whether or not you want to put up with someone being rude to you and others rather than being happier alone; best of luck!

What do I do if I’m pregnant?
Well, first you should definitely get a pregnancy test either from the drugstore or go to your doctor. You should tell your parent or your guardian so they can help. The last thing you need to do is feel alone. It also is dependant on what you want to do if you are positively pregnant. That is up to you, but consult your doctor first, so your choices are healthy for you and/or the baby.

I am a conservative in the middle of a liberal school with liberal teachers and students. I am constantly bashed for my opinions. What should I do?
Don’t feel discouraged! Don’t let the majority repress your opinions and beliefs. As a newspaper, we are criticized and disagreed with frequently and openly. Being able to absorb criticism and still maintain your core moral ground is a very powerful thing; I know it can be disheartening, but don’t give up!

I’m a senior that’s graduating this year. The thing is, I have a girl that I can’t leave behind. What should I do? I’m willing to wait four years for her.
Well, you both need to figure out if the relationship is worth saving. If it is, then you could go to a college locally or work nearby. If you both want the same things for the other person, then compromises will have to be made because of the age gap, but if you love each other, then things will fall into place. GOOD LUCK!

How do you prioritize your life with sports and school and other activities?
Balancing school and extracurricular activities can be overwhelming; it’s important to maintain a balance in your life. To use this to your advantage, create a schedule; this will help you see the holes in your busy life and allow you to take full advantage of them!

How do I ask a girl to prom?
Honestly, just have fun with it. Find out things she likes and then go off those things. Oh, and puns are also a great addition to the “Prom-posal.”

How do I avoid peer pressure?
Avoiding peer pressure can be one of the most difficult things to navigate in high school, as peer pressure is practically inescapable. The best thing to do is just say no and walk away. The sooner you say no, usually the less your peers will pressure you into doing something you don’t want to do.

Why is there a need for standardized testing anymore?
Great question! Standardized testing allows kids with less than stellar grade point averages to demonstrate their intelligence. It also allows colleges to analyze your abilities evenly, as some school’s educational rigor varies. For example, some schools and teachers inflate grades to appear more impressive on paper. Standardized testing allows colleges to see through that.

What do you think I should do to study math more effectively?
Everyone’s brain works in a different way. The math lab is a great way to get some well-needed help and to study for upcoming tests! It’s also always a good idea to write down some practice problems from the math books and try your hand at them. Good luck!

What would you say to someone who is nervous about high school?
Tell them that there’s nothing to be afraid of. High school gives you more freedom and wiggle room to be yourself. You can have more options for classes and make some great relationships with the teachers. Plus, the high school has a lot more advantages, like the College and Career Center, ROP, and more elective choices.

I’m stressed out about finding a summer job. What should I do?
Don’t worry. Desperation can come across as a negative to employers. Just relax and the right job will come to you.

Is Ted Cruz the Zodiac Killer?
Jet fuel can’t melt steel beams, but Ted Cruz’s creamy hazel eyes can melt my heart