For me, high school wasn’t really about algebra, chemistry or even English class. My teachers taught me quite a few things that weren’t really in the books.

1. It’s really not about the money, do what you love.

My teachers weren’t there for the money, they were there because it was what they loved; the students, the atmosphere, and of course, teaching. Having teachers who loved their job makes a huge difference on the impact they have on their students.

2. Don’t conform.

Throughout my years, I learned that I couldn’t just be like everyone and act how they did or believe what they did. No one would remember me if I just blended in with the crowd, if I wanted to go anywhere I needed to stand out.

3. Being a leader isn’t telling others what to do, but instead doing what needs to be done and having others follow.

You can’t expect others to listen to someone who does nothing. Instead if you want to do something, you need to start and others will follow.

4. Be passionate about life.

Being successful isn’t just liking what you do, but it involves a sense of passion for your work and life itself. People are more interested if you’re excited about what you do.

5. Take risks.

Don’t let anything hold you back. If we hang back the whole time, we’ll never know what our true potential. If we want to live our lives to the fullest, we need to take chances and hope for the best.

6. Social networking can make magic happen.

No, not Facebook or Twitter, but actually meeting different people and just talking can lead to bigger things. You never know who knows who in this world.

7. Knowing a little bit about everything makes you more intelligent than just knowing about one thing.

In everyday life, if you can make conversation with people about various topics, you’ll look like a well-rounded person rather than just knowing about one topic.

8. Don’t let people tell you what to believe.

Whether it’s politics, ghosts, or even Bigfoot. You’re entitled to your own opinion, don’t let people tell you what is right and what is wrong, that’s up to you to decide.

9. Learn to tell a story or two.

If you can’t have a little fun with life, is it really worth it? Almost anybody gets a laugh out of a good story and you never know who might connect with.

10. Get involved.

Don’t just lay back and relax, you make a lot more memories by being involved in various activities. Being involved can bring upon more opportunities, you never know what can happen.

High school taught me a lot more than world history and a foreign language. From the help of my teachers and other mentors, I was taught many valuable life lessons, some that will help me in the rest of my life. I thank these people and hope that they continue to do the same for their students in the future.