Students entering Austin High School next year got an hour-long outline of the high school experience Tuesday night.

Parents and students were taken through registration procedures, activities, electives and making the transition from middle school to high school by teachers and administrators.

Hard work and motivation were two things speakers said would make the high school experience positive.

"Close your eyes and think that you have $20,000 in your hands," Principal Joe Brown said. "The taxpayers of Minnesota pay more than $5,000 a year for each student that goes through Austin High School. Are you going to get your money's worth?"

Joe Ott, an Austin High School guidance counselor, said this year more than ever it is important to work hard in school.

"It looks like there is no money available for summer school, so it's very important you do what you can in class so you do not have to repeat it," he said.

It wasn't all getting down to business, however. Teachers representing different electives each gave their pitch to try and pique students' interest in things like agriculture, business and foreign languages.

Abbey Eckhoff, an eighth grader at Ellis Middle School, said that she was most excited about the chance to take different classes.

Her mother, Julie, said she was impressed with the speakers.

"I just want (Abbey) to have a good experience here," she said. "With the staff they have and how they spoke tonight, I'm confidant that she will."