For as long as I can remember people would constantly tell me that high school was going to be the best four years of my life. I would feel so guilty because I never truly felt that way about my high school experience.

For me, high school wasn’t awful, but it certainly wasn’t great. I attended high school because I had to. I had a small group of friends that I was content with. They were the reason I survived those few years. I went to a high school that was in a small town where everyone knew each other. For four years I saw the same faces every day. I went about the same daily routine until I graduated. I couldn’t wait to leave, I felt trapped. There was no room to grow or explore. My friends and I talk about high school and many of them feel differently. Most of them actually miss high school. They miss the simple days. They miss not having several responsibilities to worry about. Life was much easier before loans, internships, rent, car payments and much more. Don’t get me wrong, I miss Friday night football games, prom, senior skip day, and sporting events. I loved life outside of the classroom. I took many photos that I still look back on every now and then I have to admit when I hear my graduation song on the radio, I smile. But by no means was it ‘the best four years of my life.’ I left with many memories but I’m not looking to relive any of them. I don’t want to live in the past. And I don’t feel guilty about any of that.

Since graduation, I haven’t stepped foot back into that school. For me, high school was a comfort zone. My diploma was my ticket out of here. I worked hard and it got me to where I am today. I was accepted to my dream college and moved away. I embarked on a new journey. During that time, I found out who I wanted to be. I made friends from around the country. I found what I was truly passionate about. I can't speak for everyone, but for me, college has been incredible. I have more friends from high school now than when I was actually there. When I attended high school, I use to hate this town. However, During this phase of life, people change and grow. We are adults in college and people aren't looking to judge you or start rumors. We are just looking for some good company. I have a better appreciation for this town and the people in it. We still have so many years to look forward too. We have our whole live's ahead of us. So never get discouraged if people tell you that high school is the best four years of your life. It certainly wasn't mine.