Dear Class of 2017,

First off, congratulations! You have successfully survived high school! You should be immensely proud of yourselves and everything you have accomplished. Also, you are now FINALLY able to answer the question you’ve endlessly been getting for over two years— “where are you going to college?” This in itself is cause for celebration. As you have heard, and will continue to hear, college will be the best four years of your life, and you should be excited for the time ahead of you.

But, before you throw your cap to the sky and kiss those small lockers and eight class period days goodbye, I implore you to take a moment and soak everything in. Never again will you be able to walk the halls of your school as a student. You won’t have the same classes with the kids you’ve known practically all your life. Next year, some other group of friends will be munching on their lunches and telling hilarious stories at the table you’ve sat at for four years. So please, Class of 2017, cherish each moment. Savor being able to goof around with your best friend in study hall. Embrace the camaraderie you have formed with your class. Take every chance you get to make memories with the people who have helped you become the person you are today. And yes, even allow yourself to enjoy listening to the stories that that one teacher has continually repeated all year to your class. These little things are what you’ll miss the most when you're miles away in your dorm room next year.

This summer, be prepared to experience a roller coaster of emotions that you will have never felt before. One day, you will be so excited and ready to leave and start your college life. But the next day, you will find yourself crying and attempting to convince your mom to let you live forever in the basement. I want to make this clear: ALL OF THESE FEELINGS ARE NORMAL. The vast range of highs and lows you will experience is all a part of the transition from childhood to independent adulthood. Let yourself find joy in the anticipation and grief in what you’re leaving behind. This summer will be a defining season for you, so seize the opportunity it offers. And trust me, no matter what you are feeling and how much you are doubting, EVERYTHING WILL BE OKAY. You can do this!

So, Class of 2017, please live in the moment these next few weeks. Treasure your last few days as seniors, the kings of the school. Be extra silly with your friends, sing your heart out to your sappy senior song, and truly appreciate your teachers and the lessons they’ve taught you. And when you finally fling your cap skywards, let the feeling of pride and accomplishment wash over you. You deserve it. Congratulations, Class of 2017!

See you soon on campus next year,

Someone who was once in your shoes.