It’s that time of year again.

The commencement ceremonies have begun. Many high school kids have found themselves a little more confused today than they were when they first chose a college, decided to take a year off, or go straight into the work force. There is so much pressure that comes along with walking across that stage the day of graduation and seeing the bright lights shining down on you while all of the people watch your every move. When you receive that final diploma it’s a bittersweet whirlwind of emotions. You suddenly go from a child, who has been on a schedule the last 18 years of life, to a young adult that is still trying to understand who you are as an individual. Having just finished my freshman year of college, I can only say that in some ways it does get easier, while in others it gets a little more difficult. Today is the day to set goals and to strive to achieve them. There are not going to be results immediately, but they will come in time. Here are some tips for when those difficult times come up:

1. Never forget where you started

Where you come from and what you have experienced in life has everything to do with where you are going in the future. Remember that!

2. Don’t forget to thank those who have helped you along the way

Becoming a young adult is knowing when to ask for help and also to thank those that have been there for you in your time of need.

3. Set goals

If you know where you want to be in life then don’t let anything come in the way of that. You have the power to achieve anything you set your mind to.

4. Remember to call home

Not only is this new transition in life hard for you, but it also takes a toll on the people that have been with you on this journey. Stay close to your loved ones because you will need that, and so will they.

5. Step out of your comfort zone

You never know what you might experience if you decide to take some risks, enjoy being the person you are and truly find out who you want to be.

6. Find people who support your future plans and decisions

You will notice that many people you meet along the way on this new journey are going through a lot of the same experiences as you, so make sure you stay connected and have a support system wherever you are.

7. Make mistakes

Try out new things and don’t be afraid to make mistakes--these will be learning experiences for the future.

8. Stay Organized

It can definitely be hard at times to stay organized, but the more organized you are the better you will feel.

9. Don’t Stress

So what if you fail a test, we have all been there. It will all work out in the end.

10. Be yourself

You are the most amazing person that you can be. Always strive to be better for youand not the people around you.