Dear High School Junior,

I'll assume you are probably a little stressed right now. I know my junior year was beyond stressful! Your classes are hard and you are trying to figure out what colleges you might want to attend. I'm sure you feel really overwhelmed! It can be hard to focus on homework, tests, and your future all at once! You're probably dreaming of all the exciting things that are coming closer with senior year and college! If you're like me... your senioritis is starting to kick in. There's probably one class that is kicking your butt and you really don't want to do it anymore! Ah yes, we can't forget about college! You are constantly being asked "Where are you going to college? What are you going to do after high school?" Trust me... this is going to get really annoying!! Just smile and nod, you'll get through it! Now, coming from a college freshman let me give you some advice!

First, I can't and won't tell you that things will be easy! Things won't always work out the way you plan! You will You might not get into the college of your dreams.. but no matter where you go, you will do amazing things.

Remember, that you are NOT alone! There are so many people in your shoes and you are all going through it together! You're not the only person having these feelings. Find someone that will power through it with you! Having people on your side when you are stressed and overwhelmed is always better than going through it alone.

Have fun and get involved! I know that junior year is the hardest year in high school! However, allow yourself to take a break and enjoy life! Enjoy the little things and find things that give you peace! Those will come in handy when you need a getaway. Don't be the person so consumed with school that you don't look up and enjoy life. Enjoy every little moment and allow life to take you on adventures. These are often where you will discover yourself.

While having fun, it's also important to work hard. Nothing in life comes easy! You get what you work for. If you want to get into your dream college and eventually get your dream job... WORK FOR IT! Power through the long nights studying and come out stronger and smarter. Trust me when I say all of that work is worth it. I'm sitting here regretting not taking some assignments seriously back in high school. I know it's annoying hearing teachers say that you will use this in the future. Unfortunately, they were right! College professors will assume you know basics and most likely will not review... so PAY ATTENTION!

Forget about the drama! Please if you get anything from this letter listen to me when I say just leave all of the dumb high school drama behind. Don't get sucked up in it because it really does not matter at all! In college, it doesn't matter what group you were in because honestly, no one gives a crap! Don't waste your last two years caring about your reputation. If someone doesn't like you, just move on and find someone new! If your outfit isn't "hot" who cares? Don't gossip about people and spend your time hearing about people's dirty secrets. It's honestly so pointless! Start getting involved in the real world. Job shadow, tour colleges, get involved with a club that will teach you things, etc. Do things that will help you in the future!

In summary there is a lot to learn before going on your own but don't sweat it. You will learn as you go but you CAN prepare yourself both academically and personally. When things feel too much just breathe...it will be OK and tomorrow is day one of the rest of your life so live it! Your adventure has just begun see where it takes you and enjoy!