Hey Bloggers,

Are any of you high school or college seniors that plan on graduating in the spring? Well, if you are, I'm sure you're starting to feel the anxieties of completing one major accomplishment just so you can transition into the next one--I know I am. My entire senior year has, of course, been consumed by the regular workload we all know and love; but, it has also been filled with preparation for graduate school or, in some of your cases, applying to college or starting a full-time job. So I was wondering... what are some of the things we should do, and some of the things we should not do, in order to stay on the right path? After thinking about it, I came up with three dos and don'ts that we should all keep in mind.

First, DO enjoy the uplifting feelings of liberation that being an upperclassman, and a soon-to-be high school or college graduate, can bring you; but, DON'T let those feelings of liberation stop you from asking for help. Sure, knowing where everything is and how everything works at school is one of the greatest advantages upperclassmen have over the underclassmen, but there are still a lot of things everyone needs help with. I know high school seniors are about to be freshmen again, which means it's back to getting lost on your way to classes and being totally confused about course registration; and college graduates are applying to grad schools/applying for full-time jobs. No matter what you're doing, or how much you've accomplished, everyone needs a little help in their lives from someone who has been there and done that, and it's important never to let your pride stand in the way of getting the help you might need.

Second, DO embrace your final semester of high school/college by having fun with friends and giving yourself time to relax; but, DON'T come down with a serious case of senioritis before you actually graduate. Yes, the feelings of being accepted to a college, to a grad school, or just simply earning your diploma/degree in general can be wonderful, but nothing is official until you actually graduate. That means you need to keep your grades up, stay on top of important dates, and keep on planning your life goals because schools always look at your final grades. Besides, the end of one part of your life is really just the beginning of the next part, and maintaining a strong sense of purpose/work ethic is the best way to keep your life on track.

Lastly, DO be excited about meeting new people, making new friends, and bettering yourself on the life path that you've chosen; but, DON'T forget about the people that helped you get there in the midst of all of the newness. Almost everyone is excited to make new connections with others that can open the doors to new experiences, new loves, and new opportunities that are life changing. But, it's important to remember the special people in your life --teachers, coaches, family and friends--that helped turn some of the most challenging obstacles into some of the most rewarding experiences. Send them an e-mail, a text, a letter--whatever--to let them know where you are, what you've been up to, and, most importantly, that they're in your thoughts.

Remember: It's important to look back on the struggles you went through as well as to recognize the people that helped you along the way; but, it's also important to keep your eyes on the future so you don't get too caught up dwelling on the past. A significant part of your life is just beginning, and it can be a bright one as long as you let yourself shine. High school/college graduation is a symbol, and a celebration, of your accomplishments, not a time to give up because you're "not sure" what you're going to do next. Sure, experiencing stress before and after graduation is normal, because there are so many changes to adapt to; but, it can also be a very fun and motivating time if you keep your life goals in mind. So keep working hard towards making your dreams come true. I know you guys can do whatever you set your minds to!!

Talk to you soon,
Kendra