I'd like to thank high school for letting me grow. High school is stressful, but it let me find out who I am. Thank you high school for allowing me to meet new people. I met teens, people who were just like me, presenting themselves in different ways and living life to their fullest.

I'm not saying high school is the pinnacle of your life - not by a long shot, but I do believe high school is a good stepping stone. I dealt with stress, happiness, longevity, and comped levity. High school let me find out who I can and who I can't be around for the sake of my own health. My principles got a chance to develop.

Thank you to my first high school teacher who let me state my perspective and tell my opinion. It means a lot to a 15 year-old when her opinions are respected by someone who is above her. It was the first time my opinions were taken seriously and it helped teach me that what I have to say matters.

Thank you to high school for teaching me that nothing lasts forever. Friendship breakups, bad grades, tardiness, and bad time management/note taking made me learn that after I mess up in my life, that doesn't mean that mistake lasts forever. I felt like high school was going to last forever, but now it's November and I'm going to graduate in May.

Don't be afraid to grow. People will be in and out of your life. Don't look for people. Be yourself and people who are meant to be in your life will come. Don't change yourself for anyone.The people who will want to be in your life are worth waiting for.

While most seniors say that they're sad that they're graduating, I'm completely ready. I've accepted that adulthood is rapidly approaching and I'm no longer afraid. I have four jobs and I'm ready to graduate and be able to work harder. I've had my fun in high school, but I'd rather be genuinely working. I'm not saying that high school is pointless. It has purpose to teach you and prepare you for college. I am going to college and in order to get to college, I have to graduate, and I have the drive to graduate. I don't want to drop out.

Persevere through high school. It's worth it. I promise.