If I'm being honest, I spent a lot of days in high school wishing that it would end. I couldn't wait to graduate and go off to college, and I spent far too many days waiting for the future instead of living in the present moment. I've been in college for a little over a week now and it is finally starting to settle in that I will never go back to high school again. Looking back on my experience at a Sacred Heart school, which prided itself on its Catholic teachings and its respect for human dignity, I have learned these important things:

1. The importance of giving back.

All of the Sacred Heart schools have the same understanding of our morals and our goals. Sacred Heart students believe in working hard academically and beyond, and most importantly using this hard work and success to give to those in need. There are so many ways that you can help those in need. Whether it is through volunteering in your local community or fundraising for schools and charities across the globe, it is always important to take time out of your busy schedule to help those who are struggling.

2. A sense of community.

Going to a Sacred Heart school, not only do you find a sense of community within your school, but you have a bond with other girls from other Sacred Heart schools across the world! When people say to me, "I went to a Sacred Heart school too!" we instantly have this connection because we both know we share the same values and have lived and learned in similar environments. We have learned the importance of networking and how being apart of a Sacred Heart community won't just help you through high school, but for the rest of your life.

3. The importance of a sisterhood.

You may be thinking, but isn't your sisterhood the same thing as your community? Well, yes and no. Sacred Heart schools teach you how to build a community with the others around you no matter where you are, but at the same time there is nothing more valuable than the sisterhood you build with your classmates. Through the good times and the bad, the fun and the drama, we know that we will always be there for each other because of how much we've gone through together as a small class.

So, for all my Sacred Heart sissies, no matter how much you complain about it or wish to leave, know that the morals and values you have learned are some of the most important virtues in your life, and you will always live by them no matter what.