Ninth grade, often referred to as freshman year, is the first year of high school in the United States. Students typically range from 14 to 15 years old and begin to take more specialized courses, including math, science, English, and social studies. This year is crucial for building foundational skills and preparing for future academic challenges. In ninth grade, students also start to explore extracurricular activities, such as sports, music, and clubs. These activities help develop social skills and foster friendships. Additionally, ninth grade marks the beginning of a student's high school transcript, which is important for future college applications.