Mike W. Bryant
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Aug 15/01) - Going into high school for the first time can be a daunting experience. New students suddenly find themselves sandwiched between childhood memories and grown-up realities.

Ryan Arychuk will soon be heading into his first day of high school. For the time being he's keeping busy working at Yellowknife Motors. - Mike W. Bryant/NNSL photo

Never mind the pressure going from top dog to runt of the litter -- a necessary fact when one leaves junior high as a senior and returns to the lowly ranks of being a freshman.

Grade 9 student Ryan Arychuk concedes that his first day at Sir John Franklin high school might be a little bit of a challenge, but have no fear he says, he's ready for the big leagues.

"It's going to be different for sure," says Arychuk.

"I've been going to Mildred Hall for eight years. I've never written exams before."

Fortunately for Arychuk, he already has an inside connection.

"My brother's going into Grade 12, and I know all his buddies, so it's going to be fun," Arychuk says.

If only class subjects became easier.

"Math," Arychuk replies, when asked which subject equalled his greatest chagrin. "I just don't like it."

Fellow Grade 9 student Ryan Greig likes math just fine, it's the bigger kids that make him a little leery.

"I got a math award last year," says Greig.

"It's a new place. It's going to be exciting and a bit nervous because we'll be around the Grade 12s."

At least Greig is not too worried about upgrading his school supplies. He already has everything he needs.

"I really didn't have to get anything new this year," says Grieg.

"Just the usual -- pens, notebooks, paper."

And even though Grade means staying in the back of the line for now, there's still plenty of time to figure out what to do after high school is finally through.

"I'm not sure, I just haven't thought about that yet," says Greig, when asked what's in store for him after Grade 12.