How to Be Early at School: Advice from One Liberian Girl to Another

January 27, 2026

My sister, let’s be real. Waking up early for school in Liberia is not easy at all. Sometimes LEC current will tease us all night, the alarm won’t ring, the water will finish, house chores will be waiting for you, or traffic will just decide to embarrass you. But still, being early at school can change your whole school life for good. I’m writing this as a Liberian high school girl talking to my fellow sisters, not to judge you, but to help you.

1. Sleep Early, Even When the Phone Is Sweet

I know WhatsApp status, TikTok, and late-night chatting can hold you tight. Before you know it, it’s 12 midnight and you’re still scrolling. But my sister, if you want to be early, you must learn to sleep early. Even if it’s 9:30 or 10:00 p.m., try. Put the phone far from your bed, because once morning comes and the alarm rings, if you didn’t sleep early, you will press snooze until it’s too late.

2.Prepare Your School Things the Night Before

Don’t wait until morning to be looking for socks, ironing your uniform, or finding copybooks. That one can delay you fast-fast. Before you sleep, arrange your uniform, polish your shoes, pack your bag, and even decide the hairstyle you will do. When everything is ready, morning time will move smoothly.

3.Wake Up on Time, Not “Small Small”

When the alarm rings, stand up sharp-sharp. Don’t say, “Let me lie down small.” That “small” can turn into 30 minutes. If you have to fetch water, bathe early, or help your ma with chores, waking up on time will save you from rushing, missing your ride, or losing time.

4.Respect Traffic and Transportation

Whether you’re taking kekeh, walking, riding the school bus, or using a private car, remember that traffic can hold you. Red Light, Somalia Drive, Duala, and other busy areas can surprise you any morning. Try to leave your house early so even if traffic comes, you won’t be late.

5.Eat Something, Even If It’s Small

Going to school hungry can make you weak and slow. Even if it’s bread and tea, gari soakings, or a biscuit, just eat something quick. When your body is okay, you move faster and think better.

6.Think About Why Being Early Matters

When you’re early at school, you understand your lessons better, teachers respect you, and you don’t have to be standing outside the gate feeling ashamed. Being early also shows discipline. One day, this same habit will help you in college, at work, and in life.

7.Encourage Yourself, Don’t Discourage Yourself

Some days, you will still be late. Life happens. Don’t beat yourself down. Just tell yourself, “Tomorrow I will try again.” Growth is step by step.

My fellow Liberian sister, being early at school is not about being perfect. It’s about trying every day to do better. When you wake up early, prepare yourself, and move with sense, you are showing love to your future. Let’s help each other, remind each other, and grow together.