To my little sister as she begins high school.

1. School is about to hit you hard, but you can do it!

First off, school sucks. We all know it, and it can be very overwhelming at times. You are about to enter a new setting with new friends, new hallways, new boys and even new drama! If I could go back in time I would have taken advantage of my school work back in high school because the outcome of your performance actually does matter for when you go to college. My advice to you is to never give up or think you can't do it. Take advantage of high school, and I promise you, it will result in even brighter things in the future!

2. It doesn't matter how many friends you have.

Everyone thinks that being popular and having a bunch of friends is the most important thing in high school, but it’s not. Having one or two amazing friends who truly care about you is better than people who don’t really give a shit. Thos are the best types of people to surround yourself with. Remember quality over quantity!

3. You don't have to know what you want to do with your life...yet.

In high school, your teachers will tell you that you need to figure out everything you want to do in your life that very second. Honestly, I am in college and still have no freaking idea what exactly I want to do once I graduate. (I don't even know what I want to do tomorrow lol) Don’t feel pressured by teachers and other people to know what you want to do with the rest of your life. Enjoy your time today, and be happy with whatever you choose to do in your life.

4. You don't need a relationship.

In high school, having a boyfriend seems like it would be the greatest thing in the world. Once you're older, you will understand when I say this: the majority of the guys in high school are immature and only care about one thing. Looking back, I wish I would have focused on myself and my happiness. You don't need to be in a relationship to be happy. Just focus on yourself and one day when the time is right the perfect person will walk into your life.

5. It's OK to make mistakes.

Whatever happens during your high school experience, always remember that it is not the end of the world, and nobody is perfect. Promise me that when you make a mistake, learn from them and move forward. For example, if you fail a test, just study harder for the next one! There is only so much time in the world, so don't waste it dwelling on something bad that happened when you could be doing something better.

6. Enjoy time with your family.

I know you won't believe me when I say this, but once you leave for college I promise that you are going to miss the time spent with your family. You are going to miss everything about it; the dogs, your mom's cooking, your siblings, EVERYTHING! Soak up every minute of this time.

7. Don't give in to peer pressure.

Don’t EVER let anyone pressure you into doing something you are not ready to do. Whether that be drinking, sex or anything else you’re uncomfortable with. You are the only one who can decide when you are ready to do something.

8. Listen to your gut.

If your friends want to do something, and your gut is telling you that you shouldn’t, listen, and don’t do it. And NEVER do anything that would put you in harm’s way.If you feel that something is wrong, stand up for yourself and be strong.

9. Do what makes you happy.

Never let anyone convince you what to do. If you want to try out for the cheer team, drill team or even theatre, THEN DO IT! Not just in high school, but throughout your life, do only what makes you happy! It's your life!

10. Enjoy being young.

I know that when I was your age I couldn’t wait to grow up and start my life, but let me tell you, I would do anything to go back to being young and carefree. Enjoy it while you can!

11. Appreciate mom and dad.

One day you won't have someone to cook you meals, wash your clothes or even help you when you are feeling sick. Be appreciative of your parents because, at the end of the day, they just want you to be happy.

12. I'll always be there.

It doesn’t matter if I’m 10,000 miles away, I will always be there for you no matter what. If you’re ever lost or feel alone, you know you can always call me, and I’ll be there.