Welcome to high school! I know you're excited; I was too. This is a new and exciting chapter in your lives, but there are a few things that you really should know.

Now, I'm not trying to talk down to you, but as a senior, I think it is my duty to inform you of some of the things that I wish I had known when I was in your shoes.

1. Do your homework.

Now, this sounds pretty basic. It's not just a high school rule. Homework is the difference between passing and failing. Everyone, even you, knows that.

But it's more then that. Homework is how we show and improve our work ethic. We all need work ethic. It's how we preserve through things in life. By growing that skill now, you are setting yourself up for success in the future.

2. Live for yourself

Your life is your life. Live it for you. If you want to wear that dress, wear it. If you don't want to shave your legs, don't. You wanna try out for the play or the sports team? You do it because you are only in high school once. Don't worry about pleasing anyone else, because ultimately, the decisions that you make are going to be ones that you have to live with.

So, decide what you think is best, and if it's not, that's okay too.

3. Don't be afraid to make mistakes

Mistakes are how we learn and grow as people. They are part of human nature and, therefore, should be celebrated.

It's not our mistakes that define us, it's how we move forward after they have happened. Your pride may want to stop you from owning up to what you did wrong, but once you move past that you can truly move forward as a person.

4. Respect the seniors

I am not just saying this as a senior. I am saying this as someone who has seen what seniors will do to prove that they are in charge.

The senior class has worked hard to get where we are at, and it is just a matter of months before we leave high school for good. We were in your shoes once too. We all know that it's not fun being looked down upon because of your grade. We have gone through everything that you have and more. We will try to respect you as much as you respect us.

There is so much more that you will learn, and most of it will be through your experiences.

High School moves faster than you can ever imagine, and soon enough you will be where I am, looking back on your time here.

Now, welcome! We look forward to having you here, and good luck!