Being in my second year at university, I feel I have a knowledge on the high school senior stuff. I’ve been where all of you are right now and I know how stressful this time of year can be. I’ve compiled a list of things you must remember when finishing your last year of high school.

1. Have a social life.

With college applications, SATs, sports and academics, it’s tough to have a social life. However, it’s essential. You need to get your mind off things at times, so allow yourself time with friends during the weekend. Enjoy the little moments.

2. Do not compare yourself to others.

SATs and ACTs are not the end of the world. You are more than just the number you get on standardized tests. Trust me. Someone will always do better than you and that’s the truth. Of course, work hard and study a lot, but don’t be discouraged if your best friend’s score is better than yours. These are just numbers and do not define your intelligence.

3. You will go to the college that you’re meant to go to.

So you have a dream school. That’s fine! I encourage working toward the school of your dreams and aspiring toward a better future. However, take a second to remind yourself that you will end up where you are supposed to be. I had a teacher who took me aside one day and said “Tabi, don’t stress about getting into college. I didn’t think I’d go where I went and yet it’s the best thing that’s happened to me.”

4. High school isn’t everything.

I know, shocker. School dances and high school parties are going to come to an end eventually. Everyone’s got to say goodbye. All your friends are going to go different ways but that doesn’t mean it’s over. Breaks are the perfect excuse for a reunion! They say high school is the best years of your life? I think college is.

5. Take it seriously.

I know that senioritis can be a real problem. I’ve been there before. Second semester seems so pointless and you start to skip classes like no other. I recommend not doing that. Try to take your last semester as a senior seriously! Talk to your favorite teachers, spend time with your friends at school, don’t let senioritis get the best of you.

6. Don’t procrastinate on apps.

This is essential. Do not, I repeat, do not let your procrastinating habits get the best of you when it comes to college applications. They give you four months for a reason. A couple of personal statements can’t write themselves! Prepare and plan!

7. Cry.

Let it out. I know how overwhelming all of this can be. I remember thinking that college apps were the worst thing to happen to me. Everything comes to an end. Feeling like you need a mental health day? Take one! Cry about how hard apps are and how you want to stay in high school forever. That’s okay too! We all need to let out that stress.

8. Set a goal for yourself.

I find this to be important, especially during your last year of high school. So you’ve been cruising through high school with no idea what you want to be but now it’s time to declare a major. What do you choose? Take some time and analyze what you like, dislike, and what you’re good at. This will help you choose a major. From there, set a goal. It’s time to accomplish big things in college so setting a goal will help you get that much closer to reaching it.

I know how hard this time of year is for all you high school seniors. Try to find balance between working hard and relaxing. You’re so close to being done!