What I Wish I Knew in September

When September came, I thought I had it all figured out. Fresh notebooks, brand-new planners, and cute pens that would end up collecting dust. Junior year had big ambitions and even bigger letdowns. Looking back, there’s so much I wish I could tell myself. Lessons I had to learn the hard way. From surprise friendships to late-night breakdowns over work I wish I’d started sooner, this year taught me more than any textbook ever could. So, here’s what I wish I knew in September — maybe it’ll help you at the start of next year.

1. You won’t stay the same person for the whole year. 

I feel like all of the older, wiser figures in our lives tell us, “You always change throughout high school,” and oh my gosh, did I learn that this year. Between figuring out your ambitions and your goals, to learning the type of person you want to be and the type of people you want to surround yourself with. 

2. Don’t wait to join in.

Being involved may seem daunting at first, but waiting until you find exactly where you want to be is not the best option either. Even going to a few clubs every once in a while is better than not participating at all. Plus, colleges like to see clubs and volunteering on your resume.

3. Enjoy the moments as they happen.

Don’t wait until you look back at the pictures to realize that you are a part of something amazing every day in high school. Live in the moment. Open your eyes to the uniqueness that every occasion brings. 

4. Time management is crucial.

Make sure to find a healthy balance between free time/time with friends and time for hard work. Using some form of online planner or digital calendar to help may be beneficial.

5. Pick challenging but realistic classes.

As much as you aren't going to want to challenge yourself, it is best to choose courses that will look best for colleges and your personal schedule. 

6. Build relationships with your teachers.

Creating a strong bond with a few of your favorite teachers will not only help you when you have to get letters of recommendation but can also help you through your high school career with academic, personal, and friend-oriented issues.

7. Don't try to impress everyone; it will become draining.

Starting at the beginning of the year, you will probably try to impress most of the people in your classes and your teachers; however, I advise you to prioritize the people in your close circle and embrace yourself. You do not need to state your case to everyone.  Just make sure that people know that you are authentic; that is what matters the most. 

8. The “perfect” high school experience doesn’t exist.

Yes, I know. Unfortunately, Kenmore West High School is not an 80’s movie featuring Molly Ringwald. Most of the clichéd things in those movies are, as it says, just in those movies. You write your own story. You decide how you live through your own high school experience. 

9. Small steps still move you forward.

Every small step forward is still progress. Don’t underestimate your work ethic, no matter the pace you’re moving. Growth doesn’t have to be fast or loud to be real. You don’t have to do everything all at once - what matters is that you keep going.

10.  You’re not a machine, you’re a human being.

You’re allowed to feel tired, unmotivated, unsure, or emotionally overwhelmed. These aren’t flaws. They’re part of being real. Being open and honest with yourself and teachers about your own struggles and your schedule is the best way to become successful.