I wish I would've been kinder and more open to others. I wish I would've been kinder to myself. Life has thrown some pretty huge boulders at me, (well, more like avalanches of them) but I've gotten through it all. I just want to say to all students in general: Don't lose hope, even if it's the only thing you have. And don't ever lose yourself. You're more valuable than you think you are; the world needs you. Life is not about winning; it is about learning. The most important thing you can learn is to love yourself.

Value your experiences and friendships while you have them...Those memories are incomparable.

Dear 7th Grader,

Keep your chin up. Don't let anybody keep you down, especially not yourself. You can be your greatest enemy or your biggest hero. Don't try to fit in; you'll only lose yourself. Be who you are and don't worry if you stand out because you'll only be shining. This is only the beginning.

Dear 8th Grader,

Work hard. Keep away bad influences and always follow your heart. You are your own person and no one can take that away from you. Remember to always keep in touch with your core: always be kind, be thoughtful, be brave.

Dear 9th Grader,

You're getting old. Now is when your grades start counting for the colleges. At first, you may not be worried, but stress starts piling up. Doubts. Worries. Relax and do your best. Stay away from the internet. Eliminate procrastination. Trust me, the next four years will be easier without these distractions. Make good friends; you're going to need them.

Dear 10th Grader,

Remember those distractions I mentioned? They may be tempting, but you are stronger. Hang on in there, the world may seemingly be getting harder, you are starting to realize things in your life you never saw before, never thought possible. You can't ignore them, but don't let them consume you. Tackle them. Stay strong. Your mind is the most powerful weapon, and if you know how to use it you can overcome anything. Don't forget to take care of yourself.

Dear 11th Grader,

You're probably realizing that you're nearing the end. Embrace life and don't isolate yourself from the world. Positive interaction is one of the best therapies out there. If you have a good friend and a good relationship with yourself, that's all you need. Sleep is important; try to get as much of that as you can. You have changed and evolved since 7th grade; always strive to be the best person you can be. Don't try to put too much on your back; you can only carry so much of the weight.

Dear 12th Grader,

This is it. Countless failed attempts, but you always got back up again. Time to lead yourself to victory. Be victorious with yourself, be victorious with your relationships, be victorious with your work. Never doubt yourself because you are powerful, you are wonderful, and you are strong. One last ride. You've come this far, so don't ever forget what got you here in the first place. Be proud of yourself. Thank those who have supported you through it all.

Lastly, senioritis is real... but don't slack off. Your hard work will pay off in the end.

I just had my last day of high school, and I have to say that I am in complete and utter denial. Time flies so incredibly fast; you don't even feel the minutes passing by. You start counting down the days, but that doesn't make it feel any more real. Everything you've ever known, everything that you're used to is suddenly not yours anymore. It's over. I'm going off to college to start a new life, and be a freshman once again. After already experiencing the full cycle, I can tell you this: It feels good to be on top. But never forget your roots. Never forget where you came from, the people and experiences that helped shape the person you are today. Most importantly, never forget yourself.