It’s crazy how fast time goes. It feels as though I was sitting in my first period AP Lit class just yesterday, when, really, that was two, almost three, years ago. Many times it feels as if I haven’t changed much since my senior year, or my high school years in general. Having a brother and some friends who are still living through those crazy high school times, I am constantly surrounded by the drama, celebrations and complaints of the typical 17 year old. Now, looking back, there is so much I wish I could have told my freshman, sophomore, junior and senior year self.

1. Those seniors who are storming the hallway aren’t as big and scary as they seem.
2. Stop freaking out- it’s only an honors class, it’s not that much work.
3. Don’t hate the new girl because she split you and your friend up in class, you’re going to end up becoming best friends with her.
4. Take pride that you don’t own a smartphone (up until senior year)-- it’ll soon take over your life.
5. STOP trying to straighten your hair every morning.
6. Take those kickline practices seriously- you’ll miss being forced to workout.
7. Who cares that your brother’s friends are “nerdy” they’re actually funnier and cooler than you ever gave them credit for, just be friends with them.
8. Those guys aren’t as nerdy as they seemed- they just gave a shit about their future.
9. Appreciate those AP classes and the work ethic they instilled in you.
10. But it REALLY doesn’t matter that you didn’t pass that first one.
11. STOP DRINKING COFFEE YOU’RE 16 YOU DON’T REALLY NEED IT.
12. That being said, stop staying up until 12 AM, trying to memorize that whole chapter you just outlined- savor sleep before you really don’t have any.
13. Shower at night. Stop waking up at 6 AM everyday.
14. Your friends actually care about you- why do you think they’re friends with you?
15. Stop trying to be best friends with those girls who are toxic to you.
16. Realize those girls are toxic.
17. JUST KISS THAT BOY.
18. You had to miss your birthday ONCE, but you’ll be happy when you see that paycheck.
19. Thank mom for setting up SAT tutors.
20. Really…..what are you waiting for…..just kiss him, it’s really not that big of a deal.
21. STOP obsessing over why he stopped talking to you, STOP reading the texts.
22. Definitely stop texting him on a Friday night when you might not be in the best state of mind ...it’s not going to change anything.
23. Don’t think those girls are better than you just because they have boyfriends, iphones and parents who let them have parties.
24. WHO CARES that you’re the only sophomore in a class full of unfamiliar seniors, raise your goddamn hand and share your thoughts. You have so many awesome ones.
25. Actually memorize Spanish-you’ll soon regret that you forgot everything you once knew.
26. INDEX CARDS ARE YOUR BEST FRIEND
27. THANK YOU for spending two years worth of Laserbounce money on that Europe trip.
28. Stop complaining about having dance two nights a week- you’ll miss it like crazy once it ends.
29. Take pride in your love for writing papers.
30. Believe Stritzl when she tells you that you’re a gifted writer.
31. ENJOY EVERY SECOND OF AP LIT.
32. Having a curfew isn't a death sentence.
33. Stop complaining that it’s so cold out in the morning- you drive to school.
34. THANK YOU for never wearing a lot of makeup- my skin loves you.
35. Be grateful you’ve never had a boyfriend- you never really needed one anyway.
36. You’re graduating, you’re not dying.
37. Don’t be so terrified, college is the greatest.