I can't believe that it's been almost a year since my high school graduation. They aren't kidding when they say time flies.
I'm writing today to share some advice for the seniors that will be graduating soon!
If you're anything like me, you've had a countdown going since before Christmas. Good news! The finish line is in view! You're *this* close to finishing the race!
I understand how completely exhilarating this time is and have a few tips for you.
ONE // Don't wish these last moments away.
I made the mistake of being so excited about college, that I zoned out of the final weeks of high school. You won't get these memories back. As exciting as the future is, don't forget that this is a time of celebration (and studying!). Yes, you've been with your friends for four years (or more!), and I'm sure some of them are tap dancing on your nerves, but, soon enough, you'll have a whole slew of new friends! You probably won't see most of your senior class again; chances are you'll forget at least one or two people's names by the time you finish your first year of college (#guilty).
TWO // Don't trash talk your school or classmates (and post about it on social media).
Quick story:
When I was in 8th or 9th grade (the details are blurry), the seniors had to do their final project or something and turn it in to the bishop (That's Catholic school for ya). One of the girls posted a picture of the bishop with a mustache or devil horns or something silly on her Myspace page. She (and most of the kids who 'liked' the picture) was suspended, ended up failing the class and losing her scholarship to Tulane.
So, please, don't think that just because you won't have to step foot in those classrooms again gives you the right to do stupid stuff. Don't trash talk your school, teachers, or faculty. Only a few weeks left, and then you'll never have to see them again!
THREE // Don't do anything dumb or give in to peer pressure.
We all (
hopefully) know that drugs and alcohol aren't necessary to have fun.
Please, do not think that just because "everyone else is doing it," you need to go to those parties with alcohol. I know they have them everywhere, but it's an overall bad idea when you're still in high school (and far away from the legal drinking age, anyway).
I learned at the end of my senior year that just because there were wine coolers and beer pong, the people were still the same and the parties weren't that fun, anyway. (This goes for the prom after party, too! Please don't do anything silly that you'll regret!)
I promise that there will be
plenty of time for parties like those in college.
Pinky swear.
FOUR // Study for your finals.
Even if you already have a full-ride scholarship to your first-choice school, you need to finish strong! Don't just put it in cruise and "get through" those last few tests. If your grades fall drastically, your college could change its mind and revoke your scholarship, or worse, decide they don't want you at their school!
FIVE // Don't stress!
I don't mean for this to be a contradiction, and yes, grades are important, but this is the best part of high school! It's time to have fun! Participate in dress up days, go to prom (even if you don't have a date!), just let loose! You deserve it!
side note: do not get caught up about some high school boy (whoops, again, #guilty ). I know it sounds cheesy but there really are bigger and better fish in the sea. High school is like an aquarium and college is more like a lake.
SIX // Enjoy graduation!
Walk across that stage with your head held high! Shake with your right hand, accept your diploma with your left! Smile because you've finally made it! Pick shoes that you can walk in, and practice. No one wants to be that girl that tripped at graduation, but I promise no one will remember if you do.
Don't let your nerves get in the way of this happy occasion!
If you've got to make a speech, practice practice practice! Check out this
post about public speaking from Carly at College Prep!
P.S.
No one cares if you're an outfit repeater! Wear whatever dress you feel comfortable in! One of my regrets from high school is my graduation dress (which is admittedly petty in the big scheme of things).
I hope everyone has a lovely graduation season, but keep in mind, especially if you're sad to be leaving high school: college is even better than you can imagine!
