Take advantage of everything.

Seriously, just go to stuff. Go to dances, even if you think they’ll be awkward (they probably will be, but that’s half the point). Listen to guest speakers, go to games, go to extra help even when you don’t feel like it. There are actually a lot of people here who want you to do well—teachers, coaches, club advisors—and so many opportunities to try things you might not get again. It’s way too easy to let everything pass by because you’re “too tired” or you think it’s not your thing, but sometimes the most random events end up being your favorite memories. Don’t forsake what’s right in front of you.

If it isn’t going to matter at the end of high school, or even in a year, don’t let it stress you out.

I know it feels like every fight, every bad grade, every little rumor is the end of the world, but most of that stuff fades away so fast. One test isn’t going to ruin your life. That weird thing someone said about you? No one will remember or care (and if they do, that’s on them). Friend drama that feels huge now will probably be a funny story later. Try to keep things in perspective because the things that actually matter are way bigger than all the little stuff you stress about at the moment.

Find your people—and be open to who they might be.

Friend groups change all the time in high school, and even though that can feel scary, it’s honestly a good thing. Don’t close yourself off from new people just because you think you already know them, or because you’re used to sticking with the same crowd. Some of the best conversations and memories I have are with people I never expected to get close to. Be friendly, be open, and give people a chance to surprise you.

Take time for yourself.

You don’t have to say yes to every invite or be at every event. If you need a night to recharge or just want to stay home and do nothing, that’s fine. High school can be overwhelming, and it’s important to look out for yourself. Learn when to take a break, and don’t feel guilty about it.

Don’t believe everything you hear about teachers (or anyone, really).

There’s always gossip about which teachers are mean, or who’s “the hard grader,” or who plays favorites. Most of the time, it’s exaggerated or just not true. Give everyone a fair shot and make up your own mind. The same goes for classmates. People are usually more complicated and interesting than their reputations.

And don’t think it’s cringe to just do normal high school stuff.

There’s honestly nothing embarrassing about making a big sign to ask someone to a dance, cheering at a pep rally, or getting excited about spirit week. Nobody actually remembers who looked “too excited” or who went all-in on the spirit day. Most people are too busy worrying about themselves to notice what you’re doing. High school is only as fun as you let it be, and you might as well get the most out of it while you’re here. Being a “typical high schooler” isn’t cringe—it’s just making the most of the time you have. You will never have the opportunity to go to a prom at the aquarium or a participate in a Stinger Day again, so don’t miss you because you’re trying to grow up too fast. 

Thank you for reading my column and for sending in your questions (even the ones I couldn’t answer!).

Farewell,
Fiona