High school can be a fun time in a young person’s life.

But it takes effort, according to Nicole Burrows at Tuesday’s Link Crew assembly for freshmen at Lathrop High.

“It’s all about how much you put into it,” said the school’s athletic director as she welcomed a majority – or 75 percent – of the 300 newcomers to the school. “If you put zero effort, that’s what you’ll get (from your high school experience).”

Burrows served as the Link Crew advisor for the past two years. But this year, she handed the reins over to Irene Munguia.

Burrows stayed on to lead the Class of 2019 in ice-breaking activities held in the main gym.

From there, the newcomers met with their Link Crew leaders, breaking into smaller groups for team-building exercises, a tour of the campus, and a talk on what to expect during that first year at Lathrop High.

“For freshmen, their Link Crew leaders will be available to them throughout the year like a concierge,” said Principal Mike Horwood.

Weston Ranch High also held its Link Crew assembly on this day.

Although not mandatory, the event was strongly attended by the newcomers of the school.

Link Crew leaders Breonya White and James Jones, meanwhile, eagerly awaited to meet with their group of ninth graders.

They were thankful for their role as mentors.

“Link Crew got me out of my shell,” Jones said.

White recalled once being a less-than-ideal student prior joining Link Crew. She’s since grown into a leader.

“I can teach them from my mistakes,” said White. “I wouldn’t want them to go through the same thing.”

Link Crew is a transition program that welcomes ninth graders and other newcomers to their new surroundings.

The first day of school is Thursday