Advice to High School Graduates

As the school year is coming to a close high school and college students begin to graduate. Although I don't know a lot about graduating college, as I am only a sophomore, I know a thing or two about leaving high school. 

I have to admit, I wasn't the biggest fan of high school. From mean girls to just bad luck I didn't breeze through it by any means. So, I have to say I was happy to check out and start a new life at college. 

But, one thing that is hard is leaving all of your friends behind. My friends from high school go to school back home, in Tennessee, and in Boston. As you may imagine I have first hand experience in long distance friendships. My biggest advice to people graduating and having friends going all over the country is to stay in touch. I know shocking! But in all seriousness, keeping in touch by calling, texting, and skyping is so easy in today's age. So, don't stress about loosing touch! And honestly, if you are that good of friends the distance won't matter. 

Also, don't be afraid to take a leap and go somewhere were you don't know anyone. I went to Iowa State only knowing three people (very well). To be honest, going somewhere where I didn't know a lot of people was probably the best thing I have ever done. Starting fresh was easier when I didn't feel trapped in high school. Don't be afraid to branch out. Yes it can be scary, and yes some people will have all of their friends from high school by their side. But, the best way to branch out is to go off the beaten path. And if you do go to a school with people from high school, don't be afraid to meet new people. Sure you can keep your old friends but be sure to make new ones! College is an amazing place to meet so many different types of people. Coming to Iowa State I met people from graduating classes of 24 while I graduated with 1,000! It's nice to meet people with different backgrounds and different experiences. It gives you a chance to learn more about what's out there. 

Oh and one more thing, take in every moment. My old coach always taught us to take snapshots of your life. Take a moment and take in everything that is around you. Someone once said, "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it." As cheesy as it is, it's so true. While you are at graduation, prom, a senior brunch, or graduation be sure to just stop and take it in. You only graduate high school once, you will only be with your classmates all at once in those last moments. So, don't rush through it, be sure to savior every moment. Let your mom take those dorky pictures of you, because I can assure you, you will want them later. 

So, congrats class of 2015 you did it. You survived. Now, you just have to survive college. 

Good luck. 

XOXO 

Miranda