As you walk down the halls approaching a stadium full of cameras, flowers, and people who love you, you reflect on all of the “firsts” and “lasts” that took place at a school you called home for 4 years.

4 years have come and gone, and in a blink of an eye you'll find yourself saying your last goodbyes as you embark on your next journey. Be thankful for all the joyous moments and for all of the dumb mistakes, as they have made you who you are today.

Be thankful for your family, friends, and teachers who have shaped your life and been there through the pitfalls and triumphs.

Be grateful for the bad grades and breakups, for they have taught you how to be strong and resilient. No matter how many times you're knocked down, you come back stronger than ever.

Be prepared for the unknown, for it is where you will make the greatest discoveries and learn the most about who you are.

Remember who you are and where you come from. Stay in touch with those that mean the most, as distance is the greatest test of friendship.

Be appreciative of the lessons learned and the knowledge that high school gave to you, both about academics and about life.

Be accepting, of different views and different challenges. You will have so much more to learn when you have an open mind.

Be ready for change, for it is right around the corner. Ready or not, the rest of your life is approaching. Accept the change and embrace it.

As you begin the summer before college, take in all that high school has given you. Hangout with your friends as much as possible because in a few months you will be dispersed throughout the country. This may be the last summer without a full-time job or internship, so live it up. Take advantage of every minute you have with those you have grown up with and those that love you. Before you know it, you will be packing up your childhood bedroom ready to embark on your next journey. The future awaits and it is what you make of it, but never forget where you came from and what made you who you are today.