Hang in there, kiddo. Life is going to take you through some serious ups and downs, but you’ll make it through. Make every moment count, and cherish the little things in life. Make time for family, and make time for yourself. Don't worry so much about school, you’ll do fine. You probably won’t believe this now, but you’re going to have the opportunity to go on an all expenses paid work ‘vacation’, and it's going to be awesome. It's going to be exhausting, but you’re going to meet so many amazing people and you’re going to be able to do things you never thought possible. You’re gonna go far, kid. Keep your head up, and keep that dazzling smile on your face. Learn to sit without slouching, and go for a run everyday. Exercise your mind as often as you can.

Question everything, it’s how you learn. Seriously though, make as much time as possible for family. Death really sucks, and you’re going to learn that young. If I could warn you about everything, I would. Just know that no matter what happens, you’ll get through it.

Remember that nothing is permanent. Don’t hold a grudge, and learn to control that mouth of yours. It’ll get you passed over for a promotion or two. Actually, learn to control that face, too. Sometimes those facial expressions are worse than the sarcasm that you (constantly) spit out. Remember that life is precious, and also precarious. Don’t worry about what anyone thinks of you, they don’t matter. As long as you are happy in who you are, that’s all that matters. Take the risk, switch jobs, move across the country and back again.

Do what you have to do to figure out who you are. It’ll give you grit. You might find that you have more strength in you than you thought. Push yourself to be the best that you can be, but don't be too hard on yourself. Remember to rest, you're gonna need it. It is possible to work yourself to death, and you might just come close. But you’ll love every minute of it. Tour as many colleges as you can, but choose the one that speaks to your heart. It sounds super cheesy now, but you’ll know what I mean. When you get to college, walk around campus and take it all in. It’s easy to just go about your day and fall into a routine, but take the time to appreciate your campus. Learn a new way to get to class, even if it takes twice as long. Lay on the grass and watch people going about their day. Wish people luck before a test, and carry extra scantrons. Hold the door open for someone and smile. Give everyone you meet a smile, you never know who might need it. If you see someone looking lost, don’t hesitate to offer directions. Be kind, and aove all, enjoy life. Challenge yourself, and keep on keeping on.