Dear Class of 2016,

You made it. High school is over and you're about to start anew. You're about to be in a new environment with new people, and it's going to be scary.

Just having finished my first year of college and facing some difficulties throughout the year, there may be some things you want to know.

College is awesome. You have no one there to tell you what to do or when to do it, you're completely on your own. At times that's the best thing in the world, and at times it's not. You're going to miss your mom or dad reminding you to do your laundry or homework. They're not going to be there to nag you, so do not let your laundry pile up and do not procrastinate your school work.

Not everyone from high school who you considered your 'best friend' will keep their friendship with you. College shows you who your true friends are from home. You will lose friends from high school, it happens, and it happened to me. You might even lose the person who was your partner in crime, your absolute best friend, but that's okay because it just shows they were never really there for you. You'll even discover friends from back home that you never thought you'd be friends with, and surprisingly they're the ones helping you, pushing you through your semesters, and help you find your self.

Yes, you do not have to go to school from 7:34 AM to 2:30 PM, and don't have to follow a bell schedule anymore. But, you still need to show up for class and do your work. Staying on top of your work in college is super important. Once you start slacking it's hard to dig yourself back out of that hole. Also, don't be ashamed to get a tutor or go to the writing center for help!

All the petty high school drama stays in high school. Everything you said about someone, or anything someone said about you will stay in high school. Do not worry about who took who to what dance, or what someone was doing Friday night. Worry about yourself and have fun with your friends now because you don't know when you'll see them next.

You're going to miss home like crazy. You're going to miss your parents, dogs, cats, and your town. But every time you come home it is a big relief, and you can't wait for a home cooked meal.

Yes, you did it. And you're about to start adulthood, but be smart about your decisions, speak your mind, and do not waste any time- each day is precious.

Sincerely,

Me