As graduation season begins, a flood of emotions fills the new graduates' minds. The joy of the sun-filled summer months and the prospect of a new start bring smiles, while the sadness of leaving close friends behind, and the life they've grown to known fades away.

Graduation serves as a time of reflection for many. It truly is a culmination of all of the achievements they have made in the past 13 years of school. As I graduate tomorrow, I am beyond proud of the transformation I have made in the last 4 years, and I recognize all of the ways that high school made me who I am today.

Life Lesson #1: You can't do it ALL.

We have this unrealistic expectation that we should be the star athlete, lead in the musical, a straight A student, and an incredible artist all at the same time. That is just not true. We can be any of the above, but to be successful, we don't have to do it all. You don't have to walk through life with the idea that you must excel in every category imaginable, there is something made for each of us to be exceptional at.

Life Lesson #2: You will change, and that is 100% okay.

Many of us leave high school as a much different person than when we entered it.; we may wonder why or question the process, but it is natural, life is full of changes, and as time goes on, our thoughts and perspectives evolve too.

Life Lesson #3: Quality, not quantity.

Before high school even began, my Mom kept repeating this phrase to me. At the time, I did not understand the significance and brushed off the advice, but it is true. At the end of the day, the friends with the true connection and meaningful friendship will actually be there for you.You do not need 100 friends to feel satisfied. 1 true friend is worth more than 100 fake ones.

Life Lesson #4: Respect your teachers more than you respect the opinions of your peers.

It is worth it. At the end of your school career you will look back on these years and remember the wonderful teachers you had, and what an impact they made on you. They care about your success more than any of your peers ever will.

Life Lesson #5: Being kind to others does benefit you too.

As I reflect upon the amazing 4 years I had, and all of the meaningful memories I created, I noticed one thing that stood out to me. My persona had an impact on those around me; it helped me create relationships that have benefitted my life in a number of ways. It truly does pay to be kind to others (& will hopefully bring good karma, too.)

Life Lesson #6: It is important to embrace who you are.

When we entered high school as timid, little freshmen, many of us desperately tried to fit in and be a part of the "in crowd." At times, this meant giving up our own individual identity and our true characters. The truth is, the reason we are who we are is because we have something unique to offer, we all have different likes and dislikes and personalities that allow us to change the lives of others. Embrace your uniqueness and do not be afraid to be your true self.