Dear senior in high school,
It feels like just yesterday that I was in your shoes. I didn't know where I wanted to go to college, and was unsure of what I wanted to major in or do. I was overwhelmed by everything and was utterly lost my freshman year. Over the years, I have had a great time here at college, and I wish I could just go back and experience it all over again.
For me, and for most people I know, high school seemed to drag on forever. College, however, flew by faster than I could blink. That being said, don't waste any of your moments in college. Be adventurous, because you're not going to be able to experience this again. Make mistakes, but learn from them. Try a bunch of new clubs, and throw yourself outside of your comfort zone. College is a time to learn, and grow. Moving away from my home for the first time was intimidating, but I'm glad that I did it. I would've never met so many amazing people, or found out that I love learning about economics.
One thing that I wish I would've done more in my freshman year was to venture out more in what I was involved in. During my first year in college, I thought that I would merely want to continue with the activities that I did in high school. Thus, I sought out a swim team and thought about joining an orchestra. However, the same clubs got a bit boring, and I was glad to expand on my horizons more my sophomore year. I'd strongly encourage looking at all the different clubs that your school has to offer and join one that you usually might not consider. You could find a new hobby, and learn more about yourself.
Don't be afraid to take different classes, either. Just because you hated math in high school, or thought history was boring doesn't mean that the same will happen in college. When I took an economics course my freshmen year of high school, I thought the subject was incredibly dull. However, during my sophomore year of college, a friend advised me to take it, and I enjoyed the class so much that I majored in it.
Also, while grades are significant, don't limit yourself to just the classroom. Aside from joining clubs, just be active in your community. Get to know those around you. Maybe experience the world by studying abroad. Just remember that in four years, you might not be in school anymore, so enjoy the experiences of life while you still can.
Sincerely,
A senior in college
