High school is a huge step from point A to point B in your life however, relax, enjoy it and do not change to impress anyone. There are so many things that I wish I could go back and change. Though I wish I could change the events that occurred, I believe that they have shaped my decision making from that point on.
1) Juniors/Seniors DO NOT love you.
This one is huge. As much as I hate to say it, freshmen are fresh bait. These 17-18 year old boys do not love you, they do not care about you, they want one thing. My advice is to not even entertain them. You will end up in a predicament that could potentially ruin your reputation for the next four years of your life.
2) Freshman Year Grades Count!
For some reason, there's the common misconception that freshman year grades aren't as important as the others. This is FALSE! Every grade counts towards your GPA. Do not get me wrong though, one bad grade is not going to make or break you. Always put your best foot forward when it comes to school work and respect your teachers. You'll thank yourself when you're able to skip that one assignment that everyone else did but you, due to your absence. Also, senior year comes in the blink of an eye which means college applications. Colleges want only the best enrolled so show them that you deserve that acceptance by being the best student you can be in high school.
3) Stay Out of Trouble
This one really isn't that hard! Do not make your teachers lives harder! They already have to deal with parents and administration, the last thing they want to do is spend an extra five minutes out of their day writing a disciplinary referral because you wanted to act a fool in their class. At the end of the day, it is their job to teach you and your job to learn, the only person who really is affected by your childish behavior is YOU. Not having a disciplinary record makes you a great candidate for that school that you've always dreamed of attending. Trust me, it's not hard to not be disrespectful.
4) Get Involved!
Colleges look to see what activities you've done. They want to see that you're a well-rounded person! Join a few sports team, join a few clubs... make yourself known! It all pays off in the end, plus, you may have some fun and develop friendships that will last forever!
5) Soak Up Every Moment
High school only lasts four years! Do everything you can to make those memories because after you graduate you are no longer a child! You will be sent off into the world, perhaps lost like the rest of us recent graduates. It may not seem like it, but senior year is literally right around the corner. These will be the fastest years of your life, soak it all up because before you know it, it'll be your last first day of school, your last football game and your last practice.
Sincerely,
A recent high school graduate.
