9781422278116

Chapter One The Importance of Good Etiquette at School or College N o matter what age you are, it’s a good idea to think about yourself as a learner. After all, learning doesn’t simply end after you graduate from high school or college. Humans are born with an innate sense of curiosity , creativity , and an eagerness to go out and try new things. This means there is always something about yourself, your life, your relationships, and your world that stands to teach you something and help you become a more mature, intelligent, and well-rounded member of society. As a school-aged kid or teen, you’re at a unique and often challenging time in your life.

Being a student is essentially your full-time job. Understanding and retaining new information about a wide variety of subjects are some of your most demanding tasks, no matter if you’re a sixth grader, a sophomore, or a senior. On top of the day-to-day and week-to-week stresses of schoolwork, you’re probably also facing a lot of other changes in your life, too: new friends, new responsibilities, new and (sometimes embarrassing) changes to your body. How do you balance school with the many other aspects of your life, all of which demand your attention and effort? How do you get the most out of your education—not just for the sake of getting good grades (though this is important) but also for the sake of your own personal fulfillment and enjoyment?

Perhaps one of the most relevant and useful answers to these questions is knowing what it means to have and practice good etiquette. Good etiquette includes things like being fair, being considerate, being respectful, being honest, being generous, and being kindhearted. It’s what makes a person nice to be around. It’s also what can help you get along with your teachers, fellow students, and anyone else you may come in contact with throughout your academic career.

Your school days should be a happy and rewarding experience.

9