Just under four years ago I walked through the doors of my high school for the first time. I was scared and nervous. I honestly wanted to quit before I was ahead. Little did I know that it would shape me into who I was today.

1. It gets better.
2. You won’t talk to half the people you met before winter break by sophomore year.
3. Stand tall, you are smart and beautiful.
4. Yes he can grow a beard, no that doesn’t mean he is scary.
5. There is no need to run, the school isn't that big.
6. Crying is okay.
7. Yelling at your homework is okay too.
8. Not turning in one homework assignment won’t ruin your grade.
9. Friday nights at home are fun, but Friday nights with friends are even better.
10. He’s only boy.
11. Take a stand for what you believe in.
12. Saying ‘no’ is not a sign of weakness and you are not a mean person if you do.
13. If you’re not comfortable, leave.
14. If you’re scared, talk to someone.
15. You are not alone.
16. Your parents love you and you can tell them anything.
17. Don’t settle on anything.
18. It’s okay to see the good in everyone but never let them take advantage of it.
19. You are in control of your life, not a boy or a friend or anything, just you.
20. School traditions are not dorky unless you make them.
21. In four years none of this will matter.
22. Don’t play dumb to get the boy.
23. You win some, you lose some and that’s life.
24. Never ever quit, no matter how frustrated you are. I promise it will be worth it.
25. Have the time of your life!