By Sayellor Taylor

   Starting a new school can be challenging and scary. With guidance, though, it makes the process much more exciting and supportive.

   This is why Tempe Prep has the National Honor Society Buddy System. Acquiring years of valuable experience from the classes, culture, and people of TPA, the juniors and seniors of the NHS are able to pass along some knowledge to students in the beginning of their years at Tempe Prep.

   Senior Natalie Epperson, a participant and leader of the program, says a really important aspect is ensuring “our youngest students have an opportunity to ask questions and have a sense of security in a place they’re not as familiar with.” 

   Aiden Klontz, sixth grader, comments on the benefits he has felt through the program, saying that it is valuable to “learn how to make proper friendships.” 

   With an NHS Buddy, students feel less pressured to find their group right away as they already have foundation and mentors in other grades. Aiden adds that it is nice to see his buddy around campus as well as be able to write letters back and forth. 

   Another sixth grader, Jaqueline Maxwell, adds that it is really important to meet people in the school to really secure oneself in its community.

   She also adds that it’s really helpful to “have an older partner to help you when you are struggling.” Having a guide with experience at Tempe Prep can really help lighten the load of younger students.

   Upperclassmen benefit immensely from the program, as well, adds Natalie. It is crucial for allowing “upperclassmen an opportunity to gain a sense of leadership in their community.”

   She comments that her favorite part of the program is “definitely writing letters back and forth because you really get to know someone who you’d never think to talk to in the first place.” She adds that the activities, such as breakfasts and game nights, are really exciting for all members of NHS, too, as people get one-on-one time with their buddies.

   As the head of the program, Natalie has many responsibilities to fulfill. She says it’s “very important to be organized throughout the whole process especially when it comes to making sure every student has a buddy as well as making sure letters have been written.” Although she has a lot of accountability, she adds that it is super rewarding and encourages students to take on the role in the future as she really enjoys it.