We've all been there. Counting down the days, the hours, and the "lasts" of high school. But savor that moments-not to be cheesy, but the time you have in high school you will be yearning for later in life. Make the most of it, enjoy every moment. As my freshman year at college comes to an end, I've become more nostalgic than normal about missing high school. Especially as a lot of my friends are about to graduate. So, this is a letter to all of you- some words of advice, some words of encouragement, and the real talk you need before you take your next steps in life.

The paramount of your teenage years is graduation. Graduation means things like being an adult, more freedoms, and often being on your own for the first time. For many people, this leads to blissful joy, and it stresses others out. So here's my advice to you take it or leave it.

I know it can be fun to count down the "lasts"... It's the last paper you'll have to write for the class you hate. It's the last time you'll have to do calculus homework (you think). It's the last time you'll walk with your best friend to class. Yes, all of these things are beyond exciting but don't get lost in the waiting that you miss out on the opportunities and fun that is surrounding you at the moment. In a few short months, you won't see the same faces anymore. You won't be able to walk down those same halls and say good morning to your favorite teacher; you won't have the "class clown" there to keep things interesting, and your best friend might be hours or even states away from you. Cherish, and I cannot emphasize this enough, CHERISH these moments. They won't always be there in the halls or around the corner.

And as life has taught me recently, check up on people, tell them you care, and never stop talking to the people you care about. At the end of the day, you never know when it's the last time you'll see or hear from them. Hang on to every laugh and tear and smile, you'll want to go back pretty soon.

To all of my pals continuing to college:

-this is going to be a STRESSFUL experience; college is HARD- but never give up you just got to keep putting in the work... and occasionally run off of a few cups of coffee

-don't forget to plan for YOU time, you need time to recharge and rejuvenate

-don't overload yourself with classes... I've done it and it's not worth the stress and/or potential bad grades due to spreading yourself too thin

-if you're going to commute, leave EARLY you never know what traffic will be like

-if you're living on campus choose a roommate wisely or do random; if there's a problem talk about it ASAP-even if it seems small because it can quickly escalate

-keep in mind that its a totally new experience, it's going to be a major learning curve, and not everything is going to go as planned, that's OKAY

To all my pals not attending college:

-NEVER let anyone tell you this is not an okay option. Everyone has their own path and I encourage you to follow yours.

-work hard, but keep time for yourself

-never be afraid to ask for help when you need it

-keep up the amazing work!!

Whatever you choose to do after graduation will be challenging and new. It's going to take practice and it's going to have ups and downs. But that's part of growing up and becoming an adult. Don't let it keep you down, use it as your motivation to keep going. And as these last days dwindle by, pay more attention to the little things, the special moments with your friends, and the good times. Trust me, there's plenty of days I wish I could go back. I miss it-it's cheesy but its true...