I have just completed my freshman year of college. The seniors from my high school just walked across the stage at graduation to receive their diplomas. I'm at least a month into summer and already working full time again. Time flies. Before I know it I'll be beginning my sophomore year in college. I've spent a good amount of time reminiscing a multitude of memories from high school, both good and bad. Here are a couple things I wish I knew in high school.
1. You don't need boys.
Don't stress about whether or not people like you. It's not important. Focus on school and do your homework.
2. Study.
You NEED to study. Even though you can pass without it, you need to make studying a habit, before college. Teach yourself how to study.
3. Friends come and go.
It's not always your fault if you lose friends. Some people are put in your life to teach you a lesson and that's all. That's okay. Friends will come and go, and the ones who stay are the ones who matter.
4. Appreciate your teachers.
Your teachers go above and beyond their job descriptions. Take some time to show a little appreciation for that. You had the privilege of attending a small school, where you knew many teachers personally, so thank them for all they've done for you. Do your homework and assignments on time too, don't blow things off.
5. Teach yourself how to manage time.
You're awful at time management. Fix this before college. Even if you think you're good at it, there's always something to work on. Manage your time effectively.
6. Time flies.
High school goes by quicker than you realize. Before you know it, you're a freshman in college. Soak everything in and enjoy the free time you have.
7. Family is everything.
When all else fails, family is who's there. Don't blow off your family for someone who could potentially be a "come and go" friend. Family is forever, some other things are not.
8. The drama isn't worth it.
Don't get involved in the petty little things. When you get to college you realize just how annoying it is. Drama is everywhere, and half the time it's extremely unnecessary.
9. Listen to lots of music.
Don't worry if people call you names or make fun of you for it, just listen to whatever music you'd like. Whether it's Disney, pop, country, rap, dub step, or a little of everything, it's okay. Listen to what makes you happy. Sing and sing loud.
10. The real world can be scary.
Graduation passes and things start happening quickly. All the sudden you're starting college classes, and before you know it, you're finished with your freshman year. Time flies. Network. Talk to people. Constantly search for new ways to broaden your horizons. Diversity is key.
11. Be yourself.
Once you get out of the tiny reality that is high school and enter the real world, you quickly begin to realize that not everybody is going to judge you. I look up to the people who are comfortable being themselves. Be confident in who you are, and make sure you're happy with the person you are becoming.
