You made it. You survived the terrifying freshman year, the somewhat less perplexing sophomore year, and the hectic junior year. Before you now is one of the fastest years of your life. It will be full of changes, both good and bad.
You've probably seen lots of articles detailing exactly how your senior year is going to go, all equipped with "relatable" High School Musical memes. I know I read almost all of those articles that showed up on my news feed. However, these articles often skip over what actually needs to be your primary focus this year. (Pro tip: Facebook and Buzzfeed articles do not always provide foolproof material)
Dear Senior,
This year is not just about being a social butterfly or attending every event. School work is pretty important.
Over the next few months, you will be told that your grades are fine, that you shouldn't worry about them, that your GPA is decent enough. That's not what you need to go for. Work for your grades. Maintain your best possible GPA. Once scholarship and financial aid stuff rolls around, you'll be thankful for all the effort you put forth.
You have only a matter of months between you and college. Now is when you need to apply. Work your butt off to get scholarships. Don't take your parents' money for granted if they're paying for your tuition. College expenses add up quickly, so be a responsible student and try to get some scholarships.
I know a lot of people who slacked off their entire senior year and didn't start looking at colleges and scholarship applications until April. This is a really bad plan. The best scholarships usually have early deadlines. Also, some colleges do not accept applications after February. Save yourself some stress and start now!
In the midst of all the schoolwork and applications and deadlines, remember to cherish every moment. High school is a short, yet pivotal time in your life. Use this final year to continue to grow as a person. Set boundaries for yourself. Become further grounded in your faith so that you aren't blindsided when you go to college.
Make amends with people in your life. Bitterness and resentment is not something you want to carry into this next part of your life.
Grow friendships with quality people - being popular or being part of some rogue crowd doesn't need to be your intent. Surround yourself with those who build you up, encourage wise decisions, and will have your back. Learn to love your family if you have not already. Of everyone in your life, they are the ones you need to cherish the most. My mom became one of my greatest companions over the course of my senior year.
One last thing: don't spend every moment wishing for college to arrive. It will come quickly, and when it does, you'll be wishing you had more time. Take advantage of every moment you have. Take nothing for granted.
This year will fly by. Everyone says that, but it's true. So be responsible with what time you have, and enjoy it.
