I have always dreamed that a giant would beat down my door, tell me I'm a wizard, and sweep me off to buy a wand at Olivander's in preparation to go to Hogwarts.

Alas, I have had no owl nor cat swoop down on me and deliver my acceptance letter from Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This does not mean I have not learned something from the school though. Dumbledore, the headmaster, has served as a role model in my whole life and taught me some important things that I still hold dear to my heart.

"It matters not what someone is born, but what they grow to be."
Don't be a product of your environment. How you were born does not define who you are as a person. Persevere! I was not born into wealth. I am the first in my family to go to college! This is a milestone for myself. I got a job and worked hard to get where I am today. Do not let your surroundings determine your future.

"Curiosity is not a sin...but we should exercise caution with our curiosity...yes, indeed."
Always be cautious but do not fear to step out of your comfort zone. Life is about exploring and living new experiences. If you've never been skydiving, go skydiving. However, do not tread too heavily. There are risks in life that can lead to terrible things. Like drinking the weekend before an exam. There's no reason to not have fun and question things, but don't do something you will regret!

"Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light."
Stay positive. Life has its ups and downs. No matter how dark the sky may seem, it will eventually become sunny again. Always look for the silver linings. With that, you are the key to your own happiness. No one is going to be happy for you. You have to let yourself be happy or else you'll always be sad! Smile some!

"It is our choices, Harry, that show what we truly are far beyond our abilities."
In life, choices have to be made. Whether they are in your favor or not, you must make them. Having the ability to do something doesn't make you powerful. It is having the resistance to withhold that power and not use it that shows true power. Be kind to one another.

"Nitwit! Blubber! Oddment! Tweak!"
It's okay to be abnormal. Life is more fun when you have a good sense of humor!

"Help will always be given at Hogwarts to those who ask for it."
Asking for help does not make you weak. If anything, it makes you stronger. Being able to push aside your pride and selfishness and say "I need help" is an admirable act of strength. If you need it, ask for assistance. There will always be someone there who has your back.

Mischief Managed.