High school is a roller coaster for most: each year being a new turn, flip, or loop. We all have our own view from the roller coaster and our own way of coping with the motion sickness. Waiting in the line of life causes anxiety, restlessness, self-doubt and a number of other indescribable feelings. Only with a roller coaster, you can jump out of line; you can’t exactly do that in real life. If we anticipate the commotion coming towards us, we can brace ourselves for the fight or flight response our body is going to give off, or we can be caught completely off guard and feel let down, attacked, and discombobulated. Different circumstances can present different roller coasters, and it’s all about how we react to the ride.

I haven't learned enough in high school to last a lifetime, I've learned enough in high school to last high school. Each tidbit that I've taken from this tiny section of my life can easily be related to other aspects of my life, however, a new chapter means new learning experiences.

I have learned that just because you are a freshman doesn't mean you are insignificant. You have a voice. Use it.

I have learned that high school isn't like the movies. Not everything is picture perfect. Not everything is going to work out in your favor. It isn't about the circumstances that you're put in, it's about your attitude and how you deal with those situations.

I have learned that procrastination doesn't always make you work harder; it actually stresses you out more. So, start projects early, don't wait until the night before to do that 20-page research paper, and don't study ten chapters of British Literature four hours before the exam.

I have learned that the friends you have in high school most likely won't be the friends you have in college. College is intentional and you will meet people you never thought you'd be associated with. You might keep that one close friend from high school, but other than that you probably won't see them more than every ten years at your reunions.

I have learned that it is okay to not be the best. Don't drown yourself with the fact that you aren't in the top 10 students of your class. Honestly, once you get to college people will focus more on who you are as a person rather than what your high school transcript. Your GPA doesn't define you. That doesn't mean you shouldn't work hard, it just means that it isn't the most important thing if you don't meet your goal. It's okay to fail. It's okay to make mistakes.

I have learned that your parents really do have your best interest. Trust me. You may think that the early 10 o'clock curfew is absurd, but once you are out in the real world on your own you'll thank your parents for their rules. Surprisingly enough, they teach you diligence and right from wrong. Don't underestimate your parents, they were in the same position you are at some point in time.

The past four years in high school have been the most eventful years I have had so far. They have been challenging, but they have shaped me into the person I am today. I am excited and ready to experience the trials that come with beginning a new chapter in life. Bring it on!