Advice for New High School Graduates

As new high school graduates prepare to go out into the world, they are bombarded with advice from every direction. Teachers, parents, and other adults swarm to give suggestions and life advice to every graduate. While I don't pretend to have a ton of life experience, I have been at college for a year now and may have a different perspective on certain things. These are some simple things that I think are important for high school grads to remember.

Work hard at the things you set out to do. Often, natural ability is not as important as desire and work ethic. There is no point after high school at which "senioritis" is acceptable or practical. If you did not slow down towards the end of senior year, congratulations, you are ready to keep going as you go into college or the work force. If you had trouble staying motivated during your senior year, you have the opportunity to start anew.

Do things. Be involved. There are tons of things to do regardless of where you are. Start a new hobby, learn a new language. Join a club, take an art class. Pick up an instrument. You are at one of the best points in your life because the world is open to you. You are no longer required to spend forty hours a week in school, so use that time to be active. Try to do meaningful things that will expand your personal horizons.

Meet new people. Whether you are going to college or working, you will be around people that you don't know. Take the time to meet them all. You might make one friend for every five people you meet, but you won't make any if you don't take the time to introduce yourself. And make sure that the people you become friends with are truly your friends. Surround yourself with people that you wouldn't mind being like.

Play nice. Avoid burning bridges, though you may occasionally have to. Act professionally. Be mature. Express your feelings. Be honest. Most people won't know what you're thinking unless you tell them.

Treat your body well. Don't eat too much or too little. Stay clean. If you choose to drink or use drugs, don't overdo it. Exercise from time to time.

Follow your passions. Don't let your parents push you into anything that you don't want to do. Your life is yours to live. Above all else, keep this in mind. Make goals and don't lose sight of them. Life your life as you wish to.