It's the sad (and glad!) truth: I'm done with high school.

But just because I'm done with high school doesn't mean that everybody else is.

Thus, as a high school graduate, I share these bits and pieces of advice that I've learned in the past four years. Share to spread the word (and save a life!)

Underclassmen: take notes.

1. YES, your grades actually do matter.

2. Your teachers are there to help you, you know.

3. These will be years you look back on fondly, so make sure you make them great!

4. You don't have to be friends with everyone.

5. Likewise, not everybody will want to be friends with you.

6. Prepare for college EARLY.

7. Apply to scholarships EARLY.

8. Look at number 7 again. You WILL need the money.

9. Do your homework. Ten years down the line, you'll realize how important it was.

10. Drama isn't worth anyone's time. Especially not yours.


11. No boy/girl is worth crying over. You're in high school after all.

12. Take LOTS of pictures so that you remember the good times.

13. Keep a journal so you can reminisce and laugh about your crazy high school years.



14. Remember that the dark days will pass. You just have to be strong.

15. Connect with your classmates and teachers on social media after you graduate.

16. Buy a yearbook for every year, because each year is worth remembering differently.

17. Join lots of clubs. Not only will you get free food, certificates, and even medallions, but you'll meet new people and have tons of fun!



18. Stay in touch with everyone, even your enemies. In the future, what's past won't matter as much.

19. Be good to people. It really isn't hard.

20. Learn how to drive early because it will be EXTREMELY handy in junior and senior year.



21. Don't freak out if you're not popular because nobody cares once you've graduated.

22. Be smart when choosing friends.

23. That said, choose friends you can picture in your future.



24. Talk to everyone, even if you don't initially like them. You'll learn a lot.

25. Never pass up an opportunity to hang out with your peers because you may never get those chances again after high school.

26. Try everything. You'll learn more about yourself and the world that way.



27. Don't be afraid to speak up for what you think is right.

28. Take your SATs/ACTs early. It'll make things fifty times easier.

29. Continuing from number 23, be friends with people who have different views than your own. You'll be happy you did.

30. Smile at everyone, because everyone needs a little light in their lives.



31. And, finally, learn to let go. Things happen. Life happens. So let it happen the way it's supposed to.

Share to spread the word (and save a life)!