Dear freshman class of 2022,

Here is a list of things I learned in high school that I wish I knew my freshman year.

• Your friend group will change multiple times through high school. It is upsetting, but it will be okay. You’ll realize that it’s for the best.
• The “popular kids” in 9th grade won’t always be the “popular kids,” and, eventually, it won’t matter.
• What you wear doesn’t matter; the price of your clothes or what name brand they are doesn’t make you any more or less of a person. Dress how you want to, and don’t be ashamed if you want to dress comfy and not cute or preppy every day.
• As for FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out), a lot of people feel it, but it is not in your best interest to go out all the time.
• One quiz or test won’t ruin your GPA or grades. It is okay to struggle and fail sometimes. That is how you learn.
• That doesn’t mean don’t try, though. It is hard to come back from a low GPA.
• Girls will be petty and say mean things.
• Boys will tease you and sometimes take it too far without realizing.
• Not everyone will like you.
• Get involved in school activities, and try new things. It’s good to push yourself and get out of your comfort zone.
• You won’t like all your teachers or their teaching style, but you just have to get through it.
• High school won’t always be fun. There will be ups and downs.
• Ignore the chanting “go home freshmen” at school events; you get to do it to the freshmen next year.
• Branch out, and talk to more people than just your friend group.
• It is okay to go to dances without a date and just with friends.
• It is okay if you don’t make the sports team.
• You will be put in some messy situations.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Teachers want to help you.
• Learn good study habits to carry with you throughout the rest of high school.
• Try to always do the right thing, even if it sucks.
• You might date someone or multiple people, and it will hurt when it ends, but you are young and will find someone else.
• Rely on your parents when you can. Eventually, you will have to do stuff on your own.
• Enjoy it while it lasts. Every year goes by faster and faster.

As a senior now, there are things I look back on now that I regret or wish I did differently, so make the most of the four years you get in this building.

Sincerely,

Kacie Rispler