1. Thank your teachers.
Before graduation make an effort to tell all of them, even if they weren't your favorite, how much they matter. They don't get paid enough and their job isn't always fun, thank them.
2. Tell your friends how much they mean to you.
Talk to them in between classes, text them when you don't need to, call them. Do whatever it takes, make sure they know. That being said, always make sure it's a healthy relationship that you want to see continue even after graduation.
3. Same thing goes with your mom or motherly figure.
Talk to your mom, or whoever plays that role in your life. She's been through all of this before, and there's nothing as therapeutic as talking to her.
4. Do what makes you happy.
If you're interested in going out for the volleyball team but you're worried about looking lame playing for JV, just play. You're going to regret not doing it, and you don't have as many opportunities to experiment in college.
5. Don't hold on to non-sentimental stuff.
You don't need every ticket stub to every movie you've ever seen. You'll have a lot less space in college, only keep things that mean something.
6. Learn and practice what's good for your body.
Find your skincare routine. Try out different workouts that you enjoy and that make you feel good. Learn to be responsible with the food that you put in your body.
7. Don't let your best friend go ignored.
Don't let her get sidelined because of a new boy. Your sisters are important, and they'll always be there. Value these relationships.
8. Unfollow him.
Unfollow him, block him, do whatever it takes. That sinking feeling in your heart when he doesn't reply shouldn't be there. Take that negativity out of your life.
9. Call your grandparents.
They love you. Even if they don't have the same beliefs as you and sometimes you guys argue, they still love you. They won't be around forever, so call them.
10. Don't buy everything brand new.
Clothes, books, home goods, they're all perfectly fine second hand and a lot cheaper. There's nothing wrong with buying stuff from Goodwill.
11. Learn to be comfortable texting them first.
Life's going to be a whole lot easier if you stop waiting for other people.
12. Hangout with the people you haven't talked to in a couple months.
Stay up way too late with your best friend eating ice cream. This is the last year you will all be together, and you'll find yourself missing those times sooner than you thought.
13. Go to the party.
Go to the party. Go to the football games. And, for the love of God, go to prom. This is the last time you'll ever have the chance to experience it as a high school student, and things are different in college. Dress up and yell in the student section and cheer on your team. Also, by the way, no one is too cool or original for prom.
