1. It is NEVER too early to get prepared

This is something I procrastinated with and I seriously wish I didn't. Even if you're a freshman in high school, it's never too early to start looking at colleges! I used an app called College Match and it is definitely a lifesaver. It surveys you questions about future career goals, tuition budget, what type of campus life interests you, etc. and offers a list of best fit universities for you! It is also important to start saving for college and applying for scholarships ASAP! You can never be too quick to start putting money away, as attending college is extremely pricey. If you plan on taking AP courses, which can greatly benefit you in the long run, do not forget to research and study your exam! When getting a score of 3 or higher on the AP exam, you can receive college credit for this course. Getting prepared for college ahead of time is something that you will be immensely thankful for.

2. Whoever said senior year was easier than junior year... was a liar

As much as junior year of high school seems to consist of loads of work, state tests, and determining what type of college you'll get into, senior year isn't actually a breeze after that. It comes with a cycle of stress from applying to countless universities and scholarships, numerous essays a week, research papers, and just when you feel the enthusiasm of getting into the colleges you applied to, it is time to decide which one you will be attending next fall.

3. Senioritis is REAL

Senioritis is defined as "A crippling disease that strikes high school seniors.

Symptoms include: laziness, an over-excessive wearing of track pants, old athletic shirts, sweatpants, athletic shorts, and sweatpants. Also features a lack of studying, repeated absences, and a generally dismissive attitude. The only known cure is a phenomenon known as Graduation," (Urban Dictionary). Unfortunately, this does actually exist. In the beginning of senior year, students tend to tell themselves to not let senioritis get the best of them, I know I did. However once April rolls around, the whole "I'm literally done with everything" feeling sets in. Although this crucial 'disease' is practically inevitable during your last year of high school, it's very important to not lose motivation when it comes to grades and school activities.

4. Go to ALL of your school's events and make the most of them

It's imperative to make your senior year the most memorable. Go to every sporting event, play, join a new club, etc. Get involved! It's the last time you'll be able to do so as a high school student, so try something new. I never pictured myself as a class officer, however I became secretary for the Class of 2016. Not only did this bring me an abundant variety of activities to participate in such as the homecoming float, food drive, and senior picnic, but it also allowed me to make lifelong friends. If you cooperate in a club that you don't think you're interested in, try something else! Make this year your year, and don't be afraid to be outgoing.

5. Don't let other people tell you what you should do with your future

We've all seen the dramatic movies... Wealthy parents expect their child to have a 4.0 GPA and attend a prestigious medical school although the student dreams of being an artist, but doesn't want to crush their parents' dreams. Don't let anyone tell you what you SHOULD do! This is your life, your future. It's important that despite the constant stress of deciding what to do in life, students follow the path of what they can see making them happy in their future. Block out salary, education, and what people think of you: Follow YOUR dreams and find yourself in order to be successful. This is your life and no one else's, you are in control.

6. Make new friends

Remember the old saying "Make new friends, but keep the old; those are the silver, these are the gold?" Maybe throughout high school that isn't always true, why can't they all be gold? I have became close with so many new people my senior year that I wish I had got to know much sooner. These people I will keep in contact with forever, and even though distance may separate us, friendship will never. Talk to someone you've never spoken to before, sit next to someone new at lunch, ask a random person about their day. You'd be surprised how fast you can make a close pal, and how quick a companionship can develop. It doesn't hurt to form a lifelong relationship with your classmates.

7. Senior year really does fly by

It feels like just yesterday I received my schedule for my 12th grade year, when in reality a week ago the Class of 2016 earned their diplomas. This is primarily the reason why it is so important to get involved in your school, because before you know it, it will all be over. Walking across the stage at graduation causes a sudden flash before your eyes: Where did the time go? Senior year is ironic because everyday is a waiting came, consisting of counting down the days until you are officially an alumni. However, once the time has come, it is pretty emotional. "You're gonna wish these days hadn't gone by so fast."

8. It is perfectly okay to become best friends with your teachers/guidance counselor

These are the people that are pushing you forward, to see you become successful in the real world. It's totally normal to be in the guidance office everyday, asking questions or even just to vent. They are ready to hear you and are more than happy to help. Towards the end of the year, do something nice for them! Writing a simple thank you card can really show these leaders how much you appreciate them.

9. Little things will not matter in 5 years!

The awful sweater your grandma made you and asked to wear, the one test you failed, or the one time you tripped and dropped all of your belongings in the hallway: these embarrassing moments will not be remembered when you're an adult, so make the most of having a bad outfit or being a clutz. As I love to say, it's only awkward if you make it awkward. Don't let a bad day make you feel like you have a bad life, keep moving.

10. It's not the end of the world

Last but not least: It is NEVER the end. Senior year causes tears, high amounts of stress, and a million times of saying "I give up." You may be up all night studying, you may not do your best on an assignment, and you may even have a mental breakdown in the middle of class (actually happened to me about 30 times), but it's important to remember that every bad situation could be so much worse and life at any given moment, could be a thousand times harder. Always reassure yourself that it will be okay in the end, and even if it's not okay, then that doesn't mean it's the end. Remember to keep smiling because all of this pressure is just a phase. Never lose yourself on the journey of finding out who you are, it'll never be easy.

I hope you enjoy these tips on everything I wish I knew before entering my senior year of high school. To all underclassmen, take these into consideration, they can sincerely benefit you throughout your final year, but don't forget to make the most of it!!