Dear beloved high school class of 2016,
It went by so fast, didn't it? All of the college applications, senior nights for sports, award ceremonies, scholarship applications, acceptance letters, rejection letters, tears, smiles and laughs; it was all a blur, and now it's over. By now, most high schools have held their graduation ceremonies. It was surreal, wasn't it? You're walking by all your favorite teachers and try to find your parents in the crowd, and everybody seems to be a little teary eyed. It's a huge deal; school is all you have ever known. But now, it's over. And your life is about to change completely. Some of you might say, "What now?" Not to worry, I've been in your shoes. Here are the top 10 things you need to do this summer before going away to college:
1. Hang out with all the friends you can.
This one is a no-brainer, but seriously, do it or you will regret it. Spend some quality time with a friend you may not have hung out with a lot outside of school.
2. Go to your favorite local place.
Even if it's a playground that you and your childhood friends used to terrorize with all the crazy games seven-year-olds come up with.
3. Visit family members that may be far away.
Treasure every single moment with your relatives before you go, especially the ones you don't see very often.
4. Travel somewhere new (while you still have money!)
After I graduated high school, I planned a semi-spontaneous trip to Chicago, a city I had never seen before. It was a great experience and so refreshing after being in the same town for so long.
5. Try to work somewhere until you leave.
Some places don't like to hire workers that have to go away for school, but others really need seasonal help! You will not regret having some extra cash in your pocket when you have to buy your textbooks...
6. Eat at your favorite restaurant and get your favorite take out.
This one goes out to my friends who are so used to New York pizza. (Spoiler alert: pizza sucks everywhere else.) Before you say anything, Domino's, Papa John's and Little Caesars do not come close to being pizza.
7. Try to learn a few things about Bystander Intervention.
Horrifying stories of rape and assault in college circle the news way too often. Learn how to protect yourself and others by looking at possible red flags. Here's a link to learn more: http://www.nsvrc.org/projects/engaging-bystanders-sexual-violence-prevention/bystander-intervention-resources
8. DO NOT OVERPACK.
I repeat DO NOT OVERPACK. This one is more for the girls like me who like to bring EVERYTHING. Dorms are honestly tiny.
9. Spend at least one day with each of your parents one on one.
You will miss them more than you think. But you will make it, don't worry! They'll be home with open arms on your first break.
10. When you get there, introduce yourself to as many people as you can.
This was a little hard for me at first because I was really nervous. But you can do it! You will make some really great friends in no time at all.
Trust me, I know it's been crazy. And it's going to be a lot crazier. Strap in and hang on for the ride. These next four years are going to be great.
