As we begin a new year, I find myself thinking more and more about the year to come. 2017 will be a year of firsts and lasts for me, as I leave high school and embark on the journey of a lifetime to college. During 2017, I will:

1. Turn 18

Eighteen is the age of legal adulthood. Along with buying lottery tickets, signing paperwork for myself, and getting into anywhere 18 and older, it signifies the end of my childhood and the beginning of an era of making my own decisions.

2. Graduate from High School

Twelve years of early mornings and late nights will finally cumulate in receiving my diploma and leaving high school forever.

3. Start College

During the Fall of 2017, I will embark on the newest adventure in my life: college. I will have the opportunity to learn what I am interested in and live with classmates my age.

4. Move Across the Country from my Family

Along with college comes the daunting task of moving from the city I know and love to a completely new state. Not only will I be hours away from my family but I will also be in a different time-zone and completely new culture.

5. Experience my First College Classes

I will be in my first large lecture and my first writing class. I will have to learn how to study on my own and what to expect on exams.

6. Make New Friends

When I graduate high school, I will have to say goodbye to most of my friends from home and make new friends in college. For the first time, I will become friends with people from severely different states and backgrounds than me.

7. Have an Amazing Year

2017 will be my best year yet. It will be the end of one chapter of my life and the beginning of a new one. I cannot wait to experience everything this year has to offer.