LIFE

I go to a private school, and I really hate it. Everyone is so different from me, I don't have any friends, the teachers are way too strict and my homework takes me practically all night to finish. I've been trying to convince my dad to let me go to public school, but he won't let me. All my best friends go there and I know I'd be happier.

I know what you're going to say—try to be more positive. I've already tried that, and I'm honestly miserable. I cry at night because I hate it so much and it gives me so much stress. How do I convince my dad to let me transfer?

Sounds like a tough sitch, girl! But maybe there’s a way to appeal to your dad. He probably just wants you to have the best education possible, so it’s important for you to let him explain why he’s pro-private school. Maybe you’ll get where he’s coming from, or maybe you’ll still disagree. But if you want him to listen to your concerns, you’ve also gotta address his concerns about public school. If you can both hear the other’s argument, you’ll have a much better shot at coming to an agreement.

There’s still the chance that Dad won’t budge. In which case, it may be a matter of getting used to your new school. You will eventually make friends (try joining a team or club), you’ll get to know your teachers and you’ll get up to speed with the homework. It sounds cliché, but things really do just take time. In the meantime, continue to hang with your old friends after school and on weekends—they don’t have to disappear from your life just ’cause you go to different schools.

by Lindsey Silken | 9/15/2018