Dear Almost-20-Self,
Let's start at the beginning of 18. Senior year was an experience, that's for sure. You (finally) found out who your most real of friends are and took school more seriously than ever. You were a role model to children around town. (Remember when you couldn't walk through Dillions without running into a kid you knew?) You stepped it up in your yearbook class and took advantage of learning under one of the greatest teachers in the district. You applied for scholarships and worked hard every day. You were selfless towards your friends, even when you were jealous. You established a wonderful reputation for yourself through your kindness and drive.
But, even with the good came the bad.
Yes, you became a leader, but at times you let it get to your head. Without even realizing it, you became arrogant towards adults you felt were incompetent. In that, you learned some things are better left just said to your mom. In school, take College Algebra seriously-- it might just ruin that perfect GPA. And when it comes to relationships, don't get hung up over that boy you've had a crush on since 8th grade. He played you and that means he didn't deserve to know you. Most of all, never take for granted the love and tenderness your family shows you. Even though you were selfless with your friends, sometimes you didn't have the same respect for your family.
Towards the end of the year, you started to fall back into depression's trap. After graduation, senior grad parties and numerous hugs with your two best friends, you won't have a tear left for move-in day. (Spoiler Alert: your best friends from high school are still your best friends to this day.)
Your first year in college will be the best year of your life. Fall Formal Recruitment will allow you to find women on campus with the same ambitions as you. Trust me, you will thrive with them. When someone in your dorm's Group Me chat invites you to do something, do it. Whether it's watching McGregor vs. Mayweather or asking if anyone wants a slice of pizza, these small opportunities will introduce you to your best friends. These people will make you wonder how you lived 18 years without knowing them and soon enough they will become your home away from home. The first semester of classes, you stayed focused on school with a 3.8 GPA and perfect attendance.
But, as your aunt warned, the second semester requires even more focus. Never let your social life control how you perform in class. Value a study session over a dollar night because being present in class both mentally and physically is important. Even with that being said, never regret the times you went out with your friends and had a blast. You danced all those dining hall carbs off and got one of a kind SnapChats with your best friend. You will have so much fun freshman year that you'll forget how depression ever felt.
My 19th year taught me more than 18 and hopefully, 20 will continue to teach me more. The biggest advice I can give to my almost 20 self is to hold yourself to the standard you deserve.
Have fun, thank your roommate and always set a glass of water by your bed.
Call your grandma, FaceTime your mom and update your dad on your day.
Value your life and the people you surround around you.
Understand that you're not invincible and vulnerability is brave.
Take a class you genuinely enjoy and take advantage of free-covers on Thursday nights.
Always budget your money.
Keep your friends close and always be kind enough to not have enemies.
Try new things and meet new people.
Give yourself a pat on the back for beating teen pregnancy.
Even though its tempting, never rush to be 21-- enjoy the last years of being a teen, because once there gone there is no turning back.
Enjoy your life,
Your 20-Year-Old Self
