First thing's first.. Congrats; you did it! You've got one foot out the door and the other half-heartedly shuffling to your English class. You probably have a running count down until the big day and know exactly the numerical grade you need to make to appease Mom.
Am I doing alright so far?
Yeah, I've been there too. Days that seemed like they would never end and teachers that thought my heart was still in the classroom when, clearly, it had already left the building. But before you completely check out on me, hear me out. These next few months are going to go by in the blink of an eye. You've probably heard that 457 times, but it's because it's true. Like honestly, so fast. When it's gone you can't get it back. Not ever. It will never be the same. So slow down for a second, and take it all in. Class of 2017, many people have written you letters, but I want to give you a to-do list for your final months. Before you throw that cap in the air, make sure you can at least account for a few of these.
1. Enjoy EVERY Moment.
Make every moment count. Life after high school, well it's not high school. Take it from any of us.
2. Actually come to school.
This one sounds so cliche but seriously. It's easy to get senioritis and take full advantage of early check out at 11:15. Netflix will still be there in June, but these folks won't. When it's over; it's over, so show up! You'll regret it later if you don't.
3. Spend time with your friends.
I cannot preach this enough. You will have every intention of hanging out after graduation, but inevitably life happens, and that promise falls through. Even some of the people that you've known your entire life will become strangers. Spend time with them now!
4. Thank the lunch ladies.
Every single day you have a meal (or two) guaranteed, which is something that you won't find true in college or in the workforce. Get those ramen noodles ready, and forget about those smiley fries. Seriously thank them; they work hard.
5. Do the dress up days.
It sounds stupid, but after these four years, it will no longer be acceptable to dress up on random days of the year as Snow White (unless you land a job at DisneyWorld). Go all out. You don't look stupid, and you'll make so many memories, especially if you dress up as a group.
6. Hug your mom.
She's the reason you got all the ice cream scoops on your third-grade multiplication sundae, and she's going to be the proudest of all on graduation day. Just go hug her.
7. Spend less time on your phone.
Check the socials when you get home and have nothing to do. But be present while you're there. You can miss so much.
8. Show up to the sporting events.
I promise you; it will be a whole lot more fun if you go beyond school hours. I found out that I really actually like high school baseball or maybe it was the company.. Either way, just go!
9. Go on college tours.
You have to live in the moment, but it would be stupid to think that you shouldn't prepare for the future. So during these nice spring days, line up some college tours. Also a word from the wise, tour more public schools than private (unless that fits your price range).
10. Laugh until your jaw hurts.
Seriously just laugh at yourself, at each other, with each other.
11. Tell your teachers you appreciate them.
They have invested so much time and energy in you. Tell them thank you or write them a little note; it means so much to them.
12. Take lots of pictures.
When the memories fade, the pictures remain. Take lots of pictures of everything!
13. Apply for scholarships.
College is expensive, so don't let senioritis keep you from filling out those scholarship applications. When that first college bill comes, you'll be glad you did.
14. Go to prom.
Buy the dress. Rent the tux. And just go, even if you don't have a date. Don't be that person who is too cool for senior prom, just don't.
15. Study for that math test.
Seriously, you feel like you're done, but you aren't yet. And do you really wanna be the only senior that has to come back for exam week?
16. Make memories.
Enough said.
17. Leave your legacy.
You've got just a mere few months to leave your final mark on this place that you've called home for the past few years. Find yourself, and finish strong. Every one is watching.