As summer begins and all of the graduation chaos starts to boil down, there is finally some time to reflect on the past four years. It is crazy how the Facebook notifications for grad parties have finally slowed, and the "Senior Sunday" Instagram posts have almost disappeared. There is no doubt that these years were filled with awkward encounters and countless stressful nights, but they were also filled with memories I know I will never forget. Being a part of the class of 2017 was amazing, and I wish I could do it all over again (but right this time). So, here is a list of 17 things I learned throughout my four years of highschool that I hope can help anyone entering high school in the fall.
1. A lot can change in a year.
Make sure to cherish every moment. Don't get hung up on the past, make sure to live in the moment.
2. Meeting new people is a must.
Going out of your circle of friends and branching out will allow you to meet many people you would have never met otherwise.
3. School dances are way too extra.
The amount of time, money, and hairspray used for these dances is insane. On the bright side, they do make for some pretty good memories.
4. "The glass is half full, not half empty."
Keeping a positive mindset will help you get through anything.
5. Grades matter!
Even though falling asleep with your APUSH textbook is not fun, it's impossible to live in that mansion you've dreamed of when you're older without doing well in school. Trust me; it will pay off big time.
6. Your morals will be tested.
Never under any circumstances change who you are for someone else.
7. High school boys are NOT worth it.
I repeat, they are NOT worth it! Spend time with your friends and leave relationships for when you're older.
8. Tomorrow is a new day.
A fresh start is always only 24 hours away. If something goes wrong, just remember you can make the next day better.
9. There will always be someone better than you.
Someone prettier, smarter, more athletic, more accomplished, but let this inspire you to be better, don't let it bring you down.
10. Go to school events!
Whether it be a football game or a school play, go support your classmates. You will definitely miss the Friday night football games when they are over.
11. You deserve to be treated the same at 1 year as you were at 1 month.
If you are in a relationship, don't settle for someone that stops treating you like they did at the beginning. Never settle for less, you deserve the best.
12. Be nice to everyone; you have no idea what others are going through.
Sometimes a random smile or an awkward compliment can change a person's entire day.
13. Give second chances, but not unlimited ones.
If people are going to change they will, but don't push it.
14. Listen to your mom.
I know she may bug you, but have that "My Mom and I talk crap about you" relationship. Believe it or not, she may actually know what she is talking about. Also, a bonus is you will have someone to send you spending money while you are in college!
15. "Don't be bound in bitterness."
If someone does something bad to you, find a way to move on and let it go. Being bitter will not get you anywhere. You have much better things to be doing.
16. Sometimes all you need is a late night drive.
Cruising around with the windows down and music up is the best medicine for a bad day.
