One of my favorite songs is "Don’t Blink" by Kenny Chesney. The song talks about how fast life flies by and I never knew how true it was until I was walking across the stage at my own high school graduation. My parents and older students were always talking about how fast high school would go by, but it never hit me until senior skip day just weeks before I was done with it all. So here’s to all you high school seniors out there: an early congratulations and a piece of advice.

With mere days left of classes and weeks until you get your diplomas there are probably a million things running through your mind. Things like "What am I going to wear?" "What am I going to do this summer?" or even, "Am I ready for college?" The main thing on my mind was "I really hope I don’t trip." The only things that need to be going through your mind are "I did it" and "I can do this." High school wasn’t a walk in the park. Whether it was tough classes or the social aspect, there was always something to stump us yet here you are, ready with your heads held high and tassels ready to be moved from student to graduate position.

Don’t worry about the summer— not yet. Things will flow if you let them. Get a job if you don’t have one, all of us could use a little extra cash I’m sure. Spend time with friends. In just a few short months you’ll all be heading in separate directions on your own individual journeys. Of course keep in touch while at school, but it’s nice to get in some time before your states apart. Spend time with family. Soon you’ll be on your own and taking care of yourself so take advantage of a few home cooked meals and the roof over your head, whether it’s peaceful or not you just might miss it someday. Have a campfire surrounded by everyone you love because everyone loves to sing Spongebob’s "Camp Fire Song" and sure why not burn a couple of those old tests and papers, you don’t need them anymore. Make it an amazing summer, you all deserve it.

As for college, it’s not as intimidating as it seems. Yes, a lot of you are moving away from home, and yes, it’s a little scary to think you’ll be starting over all on your own but you’ll be just fine. The best part of my freshman year of college was meeting so many new and amazing people. Keep your door open during move in, offer to help someone if you’re already done and they’re struggling, or say hello to people as you walk through campus. Don’t be afraid to talk to your classmates, chances are they’re just as freaked out as you are. Side note, study groups are a great idea trust me on this one. Don’t be scared to leave your room, if it’s nice find a nice place in the grass to do homework, read, draw, write, or whatever it is you want to do. You’ll figure something out, I promise.

So don’t worry about what you’re going to wear with your cap and gown. Don’t worry about tripping across the stage, although if you do then laugh it off because you just made a great memory and story for the future. Tell your teachers how much you appreciate them, and tell your friends how much it meant to have them by your side all these years. You guys made it this far one way or another and you should all be proud, so relax and enjoy the rest of the journey because a new one starts soon.

Congratulations, graduates!