Seniors,
You’ve made it to the last year of required schooling. Now you’re ready to graduate and enter the real world, the moment you’ve been waiting for. But think about it, are you really ready for what’s to come? Some of you are 18 or will be soon, and yes technically you are an adult, but honestly are you really ready for that responsibility? Do you have a job to support yourself? Will you be willing to do whatever it takes to achieve your goals in life?
I look back at my senior year and remember thinking I had it all figured out. I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to do and exactly where I wanted to go to school. Boy was I wrong!
I was 18 and ready to graduate so I could be out on my own. I thought that college would be easy and fun, and I was so excited. Wow, did I have a reality check.
Piece of advice one: If you plan on going to college, figure it out now. Apply to several schools even if they’re not your top choice. You should always have a backup plan! Apply for any scholarship that you qualify for because you can never have too many scholarships! College is expensive!
Two: understand that circumstances change. I planned on going to one school for all four years, but I have attended three schools and will not graduate in four years because life changed my plans. Also, understand that just because life changes your plans, it does not mean that your plans do not matter. Do not give up on your goals. You just have to make adjustments in life and find another way to accomplish your goals.
Three: enjoy that last year of school. Entering the real world is not as much fun as you would think. Make long lasting memories with your high school friends because your plans may not be the same. Your paths may take you in different directions. Most of you will end up losing touch.
Enjoy this time with your family as well. You do not realize how much their company means to you until it’s not there. Even though you are surrounded by your peers you will find yourself missing your family.
So to my graduating seniors: plan ahead, enjoy your last year, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Sincerely,
A High School Graduate