Being a young teenager is no easy feat. We have to adjust to a new school, new curriculum and often new friends. I'll never forget my first day of high school.I remember my outfit- a striped shift dress and converse. I remember my lunch- a turkey sandwich, fruit and water. I can pinpoint the table me and my friends sat at- middle of the cafeteria. I even remember the bus ride- I missed it. Needless to say, it's important. And scary. You just have to keep in mind that the day is only seven hours long. Trust me, it really helps. Coming from someone who knows exactly what you're feeling, here are five things to keep in mind when you walk through those doors.

1. No one actually cares what you wear

Kids at my school wear everything from a sports coat and khakis to sweats and Chacos. And that's just on an everyday basis. No one really cares if you dress nicely at school. Except maybe your parents. And your teachers. Basically, just follow your dress code.

2. You don't have to do anything you don't want to

Please, do not misunderstand me. Do your homework. I'm saying, if you don't want to, don't go to the parties. Don't do the drugs. Don't get a boyfriend or girlfriend. Do what makes you happy.

3. Show some school spirit

I know, I know. You and your friends are way too cool to slum it on Fridays at the games or go to prom or dress up for spirit weeks. Trust me on this, though. You will not regret it. I paint my body and go all out with the game themes every weekend. Best decision ever.

4. Your classes are going to be hard

Say this with me. Your teachers do not care about your other classes. They will continue to not care. They will probably never care. You will occasionally be up till dawn. Learn to love caffeine.

5. People change

Your boyfriend and best friend today will probably not stay the same. In the words of Rafiki, it's the circle of life. The next four years of your life will be magical and horrible and stressful and every word that ends in an -ul sound. Get ready.