Recently, I came across an album on my laptop titled "Freshman Year". As I dabbled through the pictures from the duration of my high school freshman year, I couldn't help but laugh at what I saw, and how much my friends and I have changed throughout the years. With my 19^th birthday quickly approaching, I decided to take some time and reflect on how I’ve changed as a person since then. It sometimes seems like it was only yesterday that I was 15, not the almost four years ago that it’s actually been. While I wouldn’t alter the way my teenage years have gone so far, there’s some things that would have been helpful to know at the young age of 15 that I unfortunately didn’t. And what fun would it be if I didn't toss in one of the pictures I stumbled upon?

1. Get a job.

You may not like the idea of having a job and possibly having to miss those Friday night activities with your friends, but trust me, money is something you’re going to need down the line. Thankfully, my parents instilled into my head at a young age that I needed to save for the future, and now I can get by (sort of) without being financially dependent on someone else.

2. Your dress size doesn’t define you.

If someone doesn’t like you when you’re a size 8, they’re not worth trying to fit into a size 2 for, because then they’re liking you for the wrong reasons.

3. Spend time with your parents.

Soon you may not be living in the same house, city, or state as them, so enjoy your time with them while you can, even if it means staying in to watch a movie with your mom, or asking your dad about his latest garage project.

4. Get involved.

Whether it’s within athletics, volunteer work, or having a part-time job, get involved. You’ll meet a bunch of great people, and it will look great on college applications.

5. That boy isn’t everything.

It may seem like It right now, but you’ll probably find out the hard way, which will hurt. This is relevant no matter what age you are.

6. Try new things.

Branch out of your comfort zone and try something new! You never know if you'll end up liking it.

7. Using makeup from the drugstore isn’t going to kill you.

Sure, the fancy packaging and brand names are appealing, but $4 versus $40 is a big difference for basically the same product.

8. Buy staple-item pieces over trendy clothes.

Clothes that will last and never go out of style are more practical then the trendy crop tops and 80’s inspired fashion that’s resurfacing for a short time.

9. Learn to cook.

Even if it’s just the basics, it’s still a start and will help you when you’re on your own someday.

10. One good friend is better than ten mediocre friends.

I’ve never heard a truer statement. If you have a great group of friends, by all means, stick with them. But if you have one or two friends, love every second with them because they’re the ones who will be there for you through everything.

11. High school goes faster than you think it will.

It sounds so cliché, but it’s so true. Senior year goes the fastest will abruptly end in a bittersweet way.

12. Thank the people who've made a difference in your life, no matter how small.

Teachers, parents, mentors…thank them.

13. Don’t be too stubborn to ask for help, life can be confusing at times.

If you don’t know how to do something, don’t be too scared or embarrassed to ask for advice or assistance, it will only help!

14. Know your self-worth.

Respect yourself and your body, and remember you must love yourself before you can love someone else.

15. Stick to what you believe in.