It's that time again.
Senior's are beginning to graduate high school and running full speed until its time to head off to the college of their choice, and they're probably not going to slow down until their first failed assignment or maybe even test. You're off to the best four years of your life! Your parents are (hopefully) still paying your bills, and you're out of their hair for at least the next academic year; it is a win for both sides of the party. Unless, the best four years turns into the best year of your life instead.
Here are a few tips for those heading out into the "real world" on how to stay for the next four or five years.
1. DO: Step out of your comfort zone.
Talk to the random person next to you in class; they make become a good friend, or just a smiley face on campus when you need it.
2. DO NOT: Take ALL 8 am's.
I don't care who you are, or how much of a "morning person" you claim to be. You will regret doing this.
3. DO: Go to class.
I'm not saying you can't miss a class, or 5 and still finish with an A. Just stay on top of your work, and always check the teachers attendance policy (if there is one) before you hit first happy hour instead of class.
4. DO NOT: Blow all your graduation money.
A new laptop is one thing, a round of shots of your entire friend group is another.
5. DO: Budget.
You may not get yelled at the first week for spending to much money, but by Christmas break your parents will be over it. Do you need that extra t-shirt, or do you need tooth paste?
6. DO NOT: Procrastinate studying.
This may sound silly, but for someone who never had to study in high school to make all A's it's needed. Take the time to study the material, or at minimum look over your notes...or your friends.
7. DO: Call home.
It doesn't have to be every night, but every week would be nice. Just let them know you're alive sometimes (p.s. This is always a good time to sugar them up for some extra money, too).
8. DO NOT: Go out every night.
Syllabus week doesn't count, but after that your work is going to start piling up. Plus if you work hard enough, you can reward yourself the next night.
9. DO: Reward yourself.
Your mom isn't there to put your A on the fridge, so do it for yourself. You deserve a pat on the back every once in a while. If you got 20 points higher on this week's quiz than the one previous, go to cookout and get a milkshake, because you earned it.
10. DO: YOUR BEST.
Your best and your older brother's best will never be the same. You got a B instead of a D, that's awesome! You went on a walk today instead of watching the 100th re-run of Grey's, good for you!
