Congratulations; you made it through 13 years of math, science, reading, writing, drama, nasty lunches and all that comes along with being a student. Trust me, I know it wasn’t easy to make it through all the trials and tribulations, and I’m so proud of you for making it. I know that there were many points where you thought to yourself, “what’s the point?” “Why do I need school?” I’ve had the same thoughts several times, but you stuck through it, and I hope now you realize that it was all worth it. There are a few things I’d like to tell you, as a fellow graduate and member of the class of 2016.
First I’d like to say you have the potential to do so many great things with your future. Even if college isn’t for you, there are still so many options for your future. You can go to trade school, join the work force, or join the military. College isn’t for everyone, and I understand that, but don’t let your potential go to waste. Take advantage of the fact that you have your whole future ahead of you, and do whatever you want. Take a year off, or jump right into school or work. You have the opportunity to do whatever you want.
I know that high school wasn’t easy; I completely understand. Sometimes adults forget all the struggles of being in high school. I know about the nights where you came home from practice and all you wanted to do is sleep, but you had to stay up for hours on end doing your homework. Or, the days where you can’t focus on schoolwork, because you have so much going on outside of school. I get it; being in high school isn’t just about the school. I’m proud of you for making it through all the aspects of high school.
Don’t forget where you came from. As exciting as it is to move onto to bigger and better things, don’t forget where you came from.
Be proud of your high school and all the things you accomplished throughout high school. Whether it was being in the school play, winning that big game, or getting the highest SAT score, be proud of that. Also, keep in touch with your high school friends; you don’t have to talk every single day, but check in with them every once and awhile.
I’m so happy that I was lucky enough to be part of such an amazing class. I wouldn’t have wanted to be part any other class. I know that we are all going to do great things and go far in life. We have so many opportunities available to us, and it is important that we take advantage of each and everything that is presented to us. We each have the power do something great in this world; anything is possible if you work hard enough and push yourself. So, go out there and show the world what the class of 2016 is made of.
