Dear High School Self,
1. Play a sport
I always wanted to play volleyball or soccer in high school and I really regret not doing it. I kept using the excuse that “it was too late to join,” and I was so wrong. It also looks amazing on college applications and can help with scholarships.
2. Do your homework!
I can not stress this enough. When your homework says “read pages 5-15” it actually means “read pages 5-15!” Most of the time homework is easy points, you just have to do it.
3. Stay out of drama
The “Twitter Beef,” think about how many people see the nonsense going on on Twitter. Do you really want everyone to know? Do things that make you happy, be nice to others. Do not get caught up on who is dating who, who is cheating, or what people are wearing. There are many other important things to worry about. Which leads me to my next one.
4. Practice taking the SAT
The SAT is annoying. I know. It is not hard at all it is a matter of can you finish in time. Practice writing prompts and taking multiple choice tests in a timely matter. Take the exam early! You can always retake it if you do not like your score but you need to make sure there is time for a second test.
5. PASS YOUR AP TESTS!
Many students do not know how important these are. Teachers tell you that you should, “just take it because it looks good on college applications.” That is false. You should take them because if you pass you get ahead in college! These actually count as credit and college isn't cheap so take advantage of this!
6. Save money for college!
COLLEGE IS EXPENSIVE! I know that high school is all about hanging out with friends and most of the time, and that involves money. It is so much better to stick to studying during your high school years and have fun in college. It is a lot harder to work and study in higher education so money is limited, yet there is a lot more fun going on around you. If you start saving early you won’t be struggling like a typical broke college student. School will be stressful, you do not want to add financial stress.
7. Stop stressing about that boy/girl.
I know you think you are in love and the world revolves around this person, but trust me you will be fine. Stop trying so hard to make things work out, most of the time you are better off without them. You are young and you will meet so many new, amazing people in college. If someone breaks your heart, move on. There is no reason why you should be crying yourself to sleep over someone who does not deserve it.
8. Get involved
Not only will this will help your college applications, it helps you build skills, and make new friends. You might find something you are passionate about which can make it a lot easier when determining your major.
9. Get help when filling out your FAFSA
I cannot stress how important it is to fill our your FAFSA correctly. One wrong move and you will not be able to go to school. I know many people that have to withdraw from school because their financial aid was incorrectly filled out and are now in debt without any way to pay it back. It can be confusing when you try to fill it out on your own, but many schools offer some sort assistance for students. Ask your teachers, tutors or councilors.
10. Prom shopping is not that serious
Prom shopping is only as hard as you make it. At the end of the day, truth is, no one cares about your prom dress as much as you do. Everyone is excited about themselves and their date and occasionally people notice that your dress is amazing as well. Find something that you really like and you find comfortable. No one cares if someone is wearing the same dress as you, trust me! If you are stuck worrying about someone wearing your same dress you may miss out on buying a dress you really love.
11. Enjoy it
If your high school is hosting sports games, dances, concerts or a retreat, go! Have fun. We should not have to look back and say “I should have done…” Go on dates, to parties, to the movies and on many other adventures with your friends! Before you know it, it will be over.
