To all those high-school seniors,

Let me start with saying congrats. You're in the home stretch, the final semester, the beginning of the end. You did it. You worked hard, you studied a lot, and you're almost done.

But before you get too excited about what's to come and what's ahead, stop. Stop thinking about where you're going or what you're doing, who you'll room with or what bedspread you should pick out. Don't worry about a major or orientation; stop thinking about what sorority you're going to rush or which clubs you're going to join. Stop thinking about the future. It's not here yet, so leave it alone.

Instead, I want you to appreciate where you are -- right here, right now. It might be math class or softball practice or some other task. It might be the last thing you want to be doing. But think about it: In a few months, you may never have to do it again.

Think about your friends. That kid you've sat next to in English since ninth grade, the neighbor who drives you to school, the crew you eat with every Monday. Think about your favorite history teacher, your coach who always has your back, and that club advisor who pushed you to do your best. Think about the people you pass in the hallways every single day.

Think about how your time here has molded you into the person that you are today. Maybe a certain class showed you what you think you want to study for the next four years, maybe a certain coach encouraged you to play at the next level. Maybe you just learned that science isn't for you and that you hate sitting in super long classes. Think about the everything -- big and small. Think about what you've learned about yourself over the past four years.

Think about how good it feels to have a place that's comfortable, where people know your name. To pass smiling faces, to be in a huddle with the same team every afternoon, to eat lunch at the same table every day.

College is fun and exciting, new and different. It's a big change and it's one well worth anticipating and looking forward to. But don't forget where you are. Don't forget where you've come from. Appreciate your time in high school instead of wishing it away.

Say thank you to those who have helped you grow, and say goodbye to those who haven't. Enjoy the familiarity, enjoy the moments with your friends, and enjoy the final feeling of being the "kings and queens of the school."

There will be plenty of time for dorm planning and class schedules and frat parties in the future, but there are only a few moments left here. Don't wish it away just yet.

Sincerely,

A college kid who was way too ready to graduate