As I head off to college in two weeks, I wanted to reflect on the things that I have learned over the course of my 18 years of life. I think no matter what, each of these lessons can be applied to life, and anyone at any age can benefit from at least one of these. Most importantly, thank you to everyone who has taught me these lessons along the way!

1. Be thankful for what you have.

From a young age, I always remember my parents telling me to be thankful for all that I am given, because there are many others in the world who are not as fortunate as me.

2. Always put family first.

Family is everything, and no one will be able to replace the love and affection that family can provide.

3. Politeness is key.

Manners are essential in life, people will respect you more and will see maturity in you.

4. Work hard.

Hard work is what gives you results and happiness, for working hard towards a goal is more rewarding than it just being handed to you.

5. Give back.

Volunteer work and service projects are a great way to help others in need, and so many people will be thankful for the time you gave towards helping them.

6. Surround yourself with close friends.

A few close friends that you can trust with your life is way more important than a lot of friends who you cannot depend on.

7. Do not judge others.

You do not know what other people are going through or dealing with, so it is unfair to judge them based on their outward appearance.

8. Mental illness is not to be taken lightly.

Mental illnesses are a very serious and very real thing that people cannot help. It is an ongoing struggle and one should not be judged for it.

9. Don't change yourself for others.

Never change who you are for someone, because you are unique and that is what makes you special.

10. Do not let anyone take advantage of your greatness.

Never ever let anyone take advantage of how amazing you are, because you don't deserve that.

11. Stay true to your values.

Don't give into peer pressure to do things you are not comfortable with, and keep the values that you have.

12. Don't cry over spilled milk.

Being sad or mad over something that has already happened is not worth it. If it does not matter in the long run, why be upset about it.

13. Crying over a boy is not worth it.

Boys are not worth the tears, stress, and sadness, because if they make you feel bad, they are not worth being in your life.

14. You can do anything you put your mind to.

If you have a goal in mind that you would love to achieve, as long as you put in effort and time, you can make it happen.

15. Try to avoid talking politics.

Politics can be fun to talk about, but usually if it is with someone who agrees with you. Don't bring it up around someone who sees differently with you to avoid things being said that could hurt feelings.

16. Don't be in a hurry to grow up.

As cliche as it sounds, it is true. It seems like I was just starting fifth grade, but I am about to start college. Cherish every moment and love the things that people your age are interested in.

17. Money cannot buy happiness.

No matter how much money you could have, it will never give you the happiness that someone or an achievement can give you. Look at Jay Gatsby, he had all the money you could imagine, and he threw lavish parties in hopes to get the girl of his dreams, but he ended up unhappy.

18. Live each day as if it were your last.

No one is granted tomorrow, so we must live each day to its fullest.