Dear Underclassman,
Do not take these four years for granted. Although high school can be a difficult time, dealing with friendships, work loads, sports, and relationships. It will provide you with some of your favorite memories, like for me, cheering on friday nights. It is important to prioritize academics, especially to get into a good college, and be able to have the future you have dreamed about. This is something I wish I cared more about at the beginning of high school.
I did not have a good social life and school balance and overall did not care about my academics. This affected me later on, senior year, applying to colleges, and figuring out where I want to spend the next four years of my life. Although it is important, it should not be your only focus. Having a good school and social life balance is key to enjoying these four years and making lasting memories.
It is important to stay organized and not procrastinate in your work. If you do not want to do it now, you never will. It is also important to stay involved whether it is through sports or clubs. This has allowed me to gain many skills and strengthen my relationships with my peers. I met some of my best friends through sports and spending every night with them working toward the same goal allowed us to build a strong relationship that I still have years later. Some skills I have gained is leadership through being a captain and time management, managing sports and school. Doing activities through school also allows you to also have fun and not just focus on academics.
Although high school presented many challenges, and in the moment I did not always enjoy it, looking back I made lasting friendships and memories. To underclassmen: enjoy it, do not stress the little things, and definitely do not take it for granted.
