One year ago I stood where you are now. Taking the ACT for the 5th time, just to make the same grade on it. Staying up all night to write a paper because you took a really long nap after school. It's hard juggling what you think is the most important time of your life, grades, college applications, scholarship applications, jobs, boys, occasional sleep, and keeping your Instagram up to date. When I was in your shoes I wish I would have told me a few of the following things:
1. Enjoy the moment.
You never get this time back. One day it will only be memories.
2. Learn to be friends with people you wouldn't normally talk to
In college, you won't have all of your friends with you. It's good to learn how to make new friends. Talk to people with different personalities and interests. They could end up being really cool.
3. Love on your besties while you're still with them
The distance and separation will affect your friendship, so form the strongest bonds now. Make the best memories. You can travel to see them once you all move away, but enjoy the closeness now.
4. Try to pick up a workout routine
This will help when your freshman 15 starts to come. Learn how to make it a habit. It will help keep it up during college.
5. Climb on the roof of the school late at night
If this is available at your school, do it. Make an adventure with your friends- just don't get caught. Take risks because those are the times you'll remember the most.
6. Don't quit on your grades
Your GPA matters in college. So many people don't get into the sorority they want or Student Government Association because they thought their grades wouldn't matter after high school. Keep trying. You can do it. That 4.0 will be worth it!!
7.Don't think you have to be a cookie-cutter girl
Be yourself. You don't have to have the latest styles. You don't have to make the same decisions as everyone else. Your individuality is a quality everyone wishes they had.
8. Don't stress too much about college
It will all fall into place. Don't let the stress consume you.
9. Ask your mom to cook
You'll have plenty of time for Chick-Fil-A later in life. Enjoy every moment your parents will cook for you for free.
10. Save money
The shoes you want now are not as important as the textbooks you'll have to buy later on. College is ridiculously expensive, so start saving now.
11. Know your purpose
You are here for a reason. Don't waste your time. Use the situation you're in to impact others for the better.
12. Attend as many school functions as you can
Have school spirit. Soak in every win or loss, and go eat Waffle House after.
13. Don't pay $500 for a prom dress
There are many dresses out there for way cheaper. Be wise with your money. You'll never wear that dress enough for it to be worth it. You'll wish you had that money when it is time to plan your senior trip.
14. Don't put too much heart and effort into boys
As girls, we sometimes think the world revolves around that cute guy. Well they're cute, but know your standards and boundaries. Don't lower them for anyone. You need to love yourself before anyone else can love you. Guard your heart.
All of the chaotic stress of high school will be soon over. Embrace it and try to make it a little less crazy. I stood where you are and I'm where you just can't wait to be now. Make memories now because in a few, short months that is all you'll have.
