HOW TO START SMART AT OXNARD HIGH SCHOOL
Between new classes, new people, and new expectations, high school hits fast. Coming from two OHS seniors, we’ve been through the process and we know what it feels like to be in your shoes. We recommend you get comfortable with your surroundings, find your people, and prepare for your future (without trying to figure it all out by yourself).
UNDERSTANDING THE QUARTER SYSTEM
The quarter system means you take 3-4 classes in the first half of the year, then switch to 3-4 different classes in the second half. Everything moves a little faster than a normal year-long schedule.
The good part? You don’t get stuck in the same classes all year (there are some exceptions). You finish courses quicker, get to try more subjects, and if you aren’t a fan of the class… it won’t haunt you forever.
FINDING YOUR WAY ON CAMPUS
Starting at a new school can feel a little unfamiliar at the beginning, and that’s totally normal. In the crowded quad, it might feel a bit overwhelming and scary at first. But once you figure out where everything is and how your daily routine flows, you’ll find your way.
TIP: Don’t be afraid to ask for help! You can ask supervisors, they’ll be happy to help.
WHAT TO BRING AND KNOW
Backpack (not overloaded, you’ll regret it across the quad back and forth)
Binder/folders (It’s important to stay organized and make sure you don’t mix up worksheets and notes from your different classes.)
Charged Chromebook/charger (Don’t lose it your first year. If anyone borrows it from you, MAKE SURE THEY GIVE IT BACK. Talk about investing in insurance with your parents.)
Basic Hygiene like hand sanitizer (this helps at lunch when the bathroom lines are too long to wash your hands.)
Black and blue pens
Phone Charger
CTE PATHWAYS: YOUR FIRST LOOK AT REAL CAREERS
Another thing that makes us stand out is our variety of CTE (Career Technical Education) pathways available to our students. Joining one of these will give you ways to explore real careers and gain hands-on experience early on.
Some of the pathways offered include:
Business & Finance
Sports Medicine
Law Academy
G-Tech
Commercial Photography
Video and Broadcasting
Mariachi
Emotional Wellness
Hospitality
Building and Construction
Product Innovation and Design
Culinary Arts
You don’t need to commit to a certain career right now. But, exploring at least one pathway can help you discover what you’re interested in… and what you’re not.
SUPPORT IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE
Support is always here for you at OHS. Whether you have a problem in your class schedule, need a safe place to decompress, want college advice, or need another pencil, you don’t have to go through things alone here.
It’s important to build a relationship with your counselor. Yes, they have a lot going on, but that doesn’t mean you need to be scared to schedule an appointment. They’re here to answer questions you have about your classes, academic opportunities available to you, and more.
The wellness center AKA The Nest is a gateway for you to chill and get advice from our mental health technicians to guide you through something you’re struggling with. Throughout the week at lunch, The Nest hosts activities that you can join in with friends like puppy yoga or board games.
Ms. Duran in the College and Career center is always willing to help whenever. You can make an appointment with her at any time with her email or go in at lunch anytime. The College and Career center provides opportunities for not only academic help but provides volunteering and internship services.
Located near the band room, The Welcome center carries supplies for anyone. Whether it’s notebooks or clothing, it’s there for you.
DON’T BE AFRAID TO BE WRONG
High school is about trying, learning, and growing. Don’t let the fear of being wrong stop you from speaking up or putting yourself out there.
Even something as simple as raising your hand in class can feel intimidating. But if you answer a question wrong, it’s really not a big deal. Most people will forget what you said within the next two minutes anyway.
What actually stands out is effort. Teachers notice it, and over time, you’ll build confidence in yourself. The more you try, the easier it gets.
So speak up, take chances, and don’t stress about being perfect. No one expects you to be.
FIND YOUR PEOPLE
OHS has a lot of real ways to get involved and actually feel like you’re part of something. There are clubs for all kinds of interests, from cultural spaces like AAPI (Asian American Pacific Islander) Club to groups like Eco and Green Club that focus on environmental awareness and action on campus.
If you’re into something more competitive or structured, Mock Trial is a great option. It’s a team where you work together to build cases, practice arguments, and compete against other schools. It pushes you to think on your feet, speak confidently, and rely on your team so you end up getting really close with the people you’re working with.
Sports at OHS are another big part of campus life. Whether you’ve been playing for years or just want to try something new, teams here are known for being welcoming.
There are also classes that naturally build strong connections over time and real-world life skills. Programs like ASB and Yearbook/Newspaper keep you working with the same group of people throughout high school if you stick with them. You’re planning events, creating content, and working toward shared goals, which makes it easy to form real friendships.
YOU DON’T NEED TO FIGURE IT ALL OUT YET, BUT IT DOESN’T MEAN YOU SHOULDN’T DO ANYTHING
A lot of students come into OHS not knowing what they want to do, and that’s normal. You don’t need your whole life planned out, but you do need to take action.
The College and Career Center and your counselors are there to help. Ms. Duran can guide you in any direction you’re interested in, but you have to put in the effort for your future.
Not everyone goes to college, and that’s okay. Some students choose trade schools, certifications, or go straight into work. There is no single path to success.
You might also hear about Dual Enrollment, where you can take college classes and earn real college credit while still in high school.
You don’t need a perfect plan. Just start somewhere.