It's the last few days of summer. Soon, you'll be walking through the doors as official high schoolers. Sports have started, which means new varsity potential, or those organizations are starting up again. There are so many opportunities. It's exciting and a new adventure. To help get you through your first year as a high schooler, I decided to give you some advice and wisdom that I have learned.

1. Get Involved

I don't mean overload yourself. I mean join something! Find something your interested in,whether it's choir or a drama club. Find a sports team maybe. There are so many options at this level. It's a great way to make friends, stay active, and build up a college application for the future.

2. Don't Have A Relationship

It's exciting to have the cute boy/girl in your class flirt with you. It's even more exciting when they ask you out for your first date. But don't do it. This is the time to go out and enjoy our friends. High school shouldn't be about trying to find your spouse, it's about having fun and living your last few years of adult free responsibilities.

3. Avoid Drama

It's really easy to get swept up in the excitement of being in with the more popular kids. Trust me, when I say it's not worth it. You can find plenty of other people to hang out with than someone you are worried about gossiping about you. You will find people like this anywhere you go. Avoid the toxic people and surround yourself with those that will encourage you.

4. Look To the Future

Some people love high school, while some love the thought of leaving high school. No matter which one you are, rememeber that for most, this is just a stepping stone. For those that dread school, don't give up. Go to class, study hard, and scholarships will come your way to get far away! If you love school, remember that this time will come to an end. As much fun as it is to go out with your friends all the time, open a book once in a while.

5. Spend Time With Your Family

As annoying as they can be, it's even worse when they aren't around you. Someday, you'll be sitting in your dorm room by yourself, missing your pets and siblings. Your mom and dad might bother you now, but in a few years they will be your best friends. I know you are excited about getting older, but they are as well. So take a Sunday night to hang out with your family and spend some time together.

This time is the worst and the best. It's the time that you first start to feel like a teenager and your freedom is starting. However, it's also the time of awkward braces, growth spurts, and extra homework. Enjoy your time and have some fun!