If you grew up in the early 2000s, you have most likely seen all of the "High School Musical" movies. You have probably sung along to the sing-along version and learned all the dance moves to "We're All In This Together." And if you are anything like me, you have had a crush on Troy Bolton since day one! But despite our undying love for Troy and belting all of the songs out on the top of our lungs, the "High School Musical" era set unrealistic expectations for our high school careers, leading us to believe the nerds can rule the school and dancing on tables during 5th period lunch won't get you a detention.

Unfortunately, for those of us who have already completed our high school careers, we had to learn the hard way that using "High School Musical" as a guide to surviving high school, is not a good idea. For starters, I don't know how Sharpey got away with wearing pink every day and carrying her dog around school in her bag! I mean, when I tried to do that I got sent home for violating the school dress code and breaking the "no pet policy."

Also, nobody sings about their emotions. Ever. I expected girls with broken hearts to be sobbing through sappy romance songs in the hallways while guys rap to a tune about the upcoming football game! Word to the wise; save your singing for the shower because singing into your locker about how sad you are that you got a C+ on your math test is highly frowned upon.

Another thing, hats are not allowed in school. Ryan Evans' entire wardrobe convinced me that flat cap and fedora hats were cool. Well let me tell you something Ryan Evans. You. Were. Wrong. Not only are hats not allowed to be worn inside the building, but flat cap and fedora hats are not cool. Not even a little bit.

Karaoke is not, never has been and never will be a good way to meet guys/girls. I know Troy and Gabriella met that way, but I don't think I will be meeting my future husband during teen night at the karaoke club. Believe me, I would like to find a man who can sing, play sports and have nice hair. However, I don't expect to be finding my Troy Bolton while singing karaoke any time soon.

Despite the unrealistic expectations and crazy clothing choices, "High School Musical" will always hold a special place in our hearts. Any time Disney Channel is showing it, you bet your East High booty I'll be watching it! So maybe my high school experience didn't turn out exactly how I imagined it, but I will continue to live my high school fantasy through those basketball-loving, musical-singing East High Wildcats!

What team?
Wildcats!
What team?
Wildcats!
Wildcats, get'cha head in the game!