"It's the oldest story in the world. One day, you're 17 and you're planning for someday. And then quietly, without you ever really noticing, someday is today. And then someday is yesterday. And this is your life." -One Tree Hill
Senior year brings the last to many things-- last football game, last prom, last standardized tests (thank goodness). While it is so exciting to be able to start a new part of your life, slow down and realize that a huge chapter of your life is coming to an end.
To all high school seniors:
Cherish every moment. It sounds cliche, but you don't get these memories back. While your mom is yelling at you about your messy room or your little brother is bothering you about playing video games with him, do not roll your eyes and wish it would end. While everyone is yelling and sweating in the student section, join in and cheer more than you ever have. In one short year you will be leaving the place you have called home for the past 18 years, so cherish each memory before it's gone.
Do not skip that football game, movie, etc. While I know sometimes you don't feel the greatest, do not skip out on plans with your friends. You will not have many times left until you'll all go separate ways and possibly not talk much anymore, so please go, no matter how crappy you feel. Trust me, you'll regret missing out on it once it's all over.
Do not slack off. I know "senioritis" is way too real, but keep pushing. College will only get harder, so keep up the work. I know how bad you want to just BS that essay, but don't. Take my word when I say it is easy to get behind senior year. Don't waste three years of hard work-- believe it or not, your GPA kinda matters, so don't mess it up.
Have a back up plan. Of course, things don't always go as planned. Maybe that school you dreamed of going to denied you or maybe you didn't get that scholarship you really wanted. Trust me, it is not the end of the world, though I know it seems like it. Apply to more schools and for more scholarships. Have an open mind, because you will end up exactly where you are supposed to be.
Say thank you. So many people have helped you to be who you are today. Take time to thank your teachers, family, friends, neighbors, bosses, and anyone else who deserves your thanks. We both know you wouldn't be where you are today without all those people in your life.
Lastly, take time to reflect. Right now you are surrounded by people that you have grown up with. Soon you will all be going different ways, and it sounds bad but honestly a lot of the people you see and talk to every single day soon will become strangers. Take time to reflect on those endless nights spent together. Those memories you hold so dear are bittersweet, but it's nice to reflect and appreciate every thing that has happened to bring you to where you are today.
So have fun senior year. Take risks, meet new people, find a passion you never knew, and maybe even find yourself. In one short year you will be saying goodbye to everything you know, and trust me when I say it's one of the shortest years of your life. Make it a year to remember, because you really only get one shot. Best of luck in everything.
Love,
a high school senior college freshman
