Things I wish I'd known in High School: Life in General Edition

1. Why so shy?
          Don't be, there's no reason for it. Yes, these are new people. But you're undoubtedly awesome, so be friendly. Who knows who you might meet?          
2. Don't slack in school.
         But that's so boooorinngg, says the entire teenage population in unison. Look, trust me, I know. but that C average isn't getting you into college. Work hard now so that later on you can do what you want without worries.
3. If they lied once, it's likely it will happen again
         There's something my mom always says: gentle as a dove, wise as a snake. Basically, don't be bitter and suspicious but don't be stupid either. The greatest indicator of future behavior is past behavior, so don't be surprised if someone repeatedly tries to deceive you. They do it because they feel they can get away with it. Be someone worthy of respect and demand it.
4. You don't have to be friends with everyone.
          ... Wait isn't that the opposite of what I usually say? What happened to "be friendly"?
Well, what I'm trying to tell you is that if you feel put down or uncomfortable around certain people, there are thousands of others in your high school that you can be friends with. The oldest friends aren't always the best.
5. Join clubs and take AP classes
              The clubs help you make friends and the AP classes add some extra points to your GPA. What's not to love? Yea, the work can be hard, but don't limit yourself. Give it a shot
6. Figure that whole studying thing out.
           What works for you? Taking notes? Index cards? Are you a visual, auditory or hands on learner? Figure it out now and you'll start learning more efficiently.
7.  Enjoy it
           No, these are not the best years of your life. Your life will be long and fruitful, you don't need to plateau after high school. However, these are four years like no other. DO EVERYTHING. TIME IS FLEETING.

Love,
     Vicky