From elementary school to the university, I've had dozens of teachers who made it their life's work to educate students like me - whether or not they succeeded or not. I'm very supportive of American teachers, especially those who sacrifice pay for making a difference in their pupils' lives for the better. However, I'm of the firmest belief that even the worst teachers can teach you the most valuable lessons, even if they get the worst evaluations at the end of the semester. So for each of my 24 years, I'm compiling a list of the most valuable lessons I've gotten from the best - and worst - teachers, from kindergarten to senior year of college.

1. Some people are going to make up reasons to be mean to you.

It's not a reflection on me, some people just "have a bee in their bonnet".

2. Some people are going to be strict because they want to push you to become stronger.

I can't help but appreciate that when I look back years later.

3. If you have a bit part, whether in the school play or in life, make the most of it.

I love to perform, whether it's karaoke, acting, or just in my day to day life. Every outfit can be a costume, every word you say can have art in it.

4. It's one thing to be smart, and something else entirely to 'think outside the box'.

Also, logic puzzles and riddles are fun. This is the cornerstone of my personal belief: everyone is smart, but nobody is exactly the same kind of smart as someone else.

5. Just because you fail at something doesn't mean you can't grasp the concept.

Maybe you just learn differently than how people expect you to. See #4.

6. Bill Nye is awesome.

7. Seeing how horribly gay people are treated in today's society, why would anybody choose to be gay?

This was a lesson that definitely started me on the path to critical thinking, and deciding for myself what I truly believed.

8. Writing is definitely a thing I can do.

Once I figured out that I can write, and write well, that gave me a reason to be proud of myself - something very important when you're in the eighth grade.

9. An empty desk signifies an empty mind.

I admit it, I can be disorganized, with papers all over my desk and in my bag, notes and books and everything spread over my area. But part of that is because my mind is so full of ideas and interests, I can't help but want to learn everything I can. And that's worth more than having a Spartan personal space, in my mind.

10. People are willing to overlook an honest mistake if you've demonstrated that you have a good character and work ethic.

Call it karma, if you want.

11. Sometimes the best pneumonics are the crudest ones.

And no, I'm not telling you which pneumonic I'm talking about. I'm just saying that once you learn a terrible rhyme to remember something in school, you will never forget it.

12. Don't be afraid to meet with people you think are going to yell at you.

They may yell at you, or they may give you one of the finest compliments that will stick with you for years.

13. If you're genuinely trying your best, it doesn't matter if you aren't that good at the gym.

As long as you see yourself improving, you're doing a good job.

14. A love for learning is commendable, even if you aren't getting dual credits.

You can call me a teacher's pet, but I'm going to keep learning about everything I can, from science and psychology to literature and writing.

15. The best Shakespeare play is Richard III, hands down.

16. There's no shame in losing occasionally, as long as you try to prepare and do your best.

You don't have to be the first chair in band, or always get first in speech competitions.

17. Ignorance and willful stupidity are two entirely separate things.

Ignorance is not a fault unless you refuse to learn from others.

18. Women opted for abortion before it was legalized, even at the risk of dying.

Why would that change if we criminalized it again?

19. If you honestly dread going to work in the morning, to the point of getting physically ill, it's okay to quit.

It's not your duty to suffer through an unhealthy career.

20. Never buy Busch Light.

It's a lackluster beer that offers no discernable flavor, and if you add lemon juice and sugar you could sell it on the street for a quarter a cup.

21. Religion ultimately tells you nothing about a person.

There are good and bad eggs in every sect.

22. Politics matter.

You are not above what the head honchos are doing in office, and it is your responsibility to care about what their actions might affect, for both you and everyone else.

23. Enthusiasm about your work is great.

Forcing your enthusiasm onto everyone else is annoying.

24. And finally: it doesn't matter what you plan in life.

Life is full of twists and turns, and if you can learn to appreciate those little bumps in the road as chances to try something new, that's one step closer to becoming a confident adult.

These are just some of the lessons I've learned from my teachers and professors over the years, and I just want to say - thank you. I couldn't be the person I am today without your guidance. I know many of you have it tough, and it will likely get even tougher, but you make so much difference in the lives of your students.

From a grateful pupil,

Madds Warren