Dear Senior,

Nothing is more exciting than senior year - at least that's what I thought. Going into senior year, I expected all these great things, but it was a lot more than that. Here's what I learned:

1. It will be the most difficult year.

I didn't think any year could be harder than junior year, but then senior year hit. Don't get me wrong, senior year was probably one of my best years, but also the toughest. There are late, late, late, and did I mention late, nights. There are times where you think, "I probably should just drop out now." There will be times where you contemplate finishing that scholarship essay, studying for that calculus test, or just getting much-needed sleep. You learn much-needed time management skills that will definitely prepare you for what's ahead. Senior year is stressful, but I promise it is worth it when you walk across the stage and everything you prepared for has finally shown.

2. Nothing goes as planned.

You are always asked the same question a million times, "What do you want to do?" or "Where do you want to go?" When you go into senior year, you have this idea of where you want to go, what you want to do, or at least some idea of those two. You apply to your favorite college that is at the top of your list, but also those backup colleges just in case. You get the letter in the mail, and your top choice denies you or you get put on the wait list. Suddenly everything changes and you begin to freak out. I am one to believe that everything happens for a reason, and what you want sometimes isn't always what you need. So, when things don't go as planned, and the college you always wanted to attend doesn't work out, trust that there are better things ahead. I know it is heartbreaking, but I promise it gets better. It did for me.

3. Take nothing for granted.

This is your last year around people you have probably grown up with. This may be the last time you sit in that boring class next to your best friend. From the first day of senior year, I wanted it to be over, but please do not rush it. Don't take the time you have with your best friends for granted because soon you will be walking across the stage never to be in the same classroom as them again. Also, tell your parents thank you constantly. Senior year is just as hard on them as it is on you. They will pour money into your senior year along with time. Don't take it for granted because you will wish they were with you when you get to college. Senior year is full of lasts, so enjoy those. Whether it is your last time on the court, field, concerthall or stage - enjoy it. Don't rush it.

4. You will start the year with people who won't be there when it ends.

Senior year really tests your friendships. You have been with these people for going on four years, and things start to get shaky. You all will have sleepless nights and/or late nights, and the next morning wake up cranky. Don't flip out on your friends who are just there to help you. Some of your friends will choose to have an easy senior year and do things they have never done before in high school because why not, it's senior year. People change, and that's okay. Don't be stressed when a friendship or two does fall apart. It happens. Be around people who support you and encourage you during the hard times and the good times. It definitely helps the stress of senior year.

5. Don't rush it.

I am so ready to graduate. When is break? Only 100 more days left! I am so ready to be in college! I've heard and said it all, but it goes by in the blink of an eye. I know everyone says that, but trust me when I say it. Once you walk across the stage, it doesn't seem real for about two weeks. You hug your friends and say bye for what probably will be the last time you see them. You say bye to the teacher that constantly supported you from freshman year to senior year. You are leaving the place that molded you for four years. You will wish it wasn't over when you leave for the last time. Enjoy the time with your friends and the late night Cookout runs. Enjoy the Friday night football games, whether you are cheering, playing in the band or on the field. Enjoy the time with your family because it won't be the same once you leave. Find time to step away from the books, studying and applications and just enjoy yourself. You will regret it if you don't at least stop and enjoy the year once in a while. Enjoy one the best, most stressful, fun, monumental years you will have.