In my Young Women's group at church, my youth advisor asked each of the graduated seniors to take five minutes to talk about what we wish we had known when we are twelve. This experience made me realize that there was a lot I had learned to prepare me for college. I began to think of lessons I learned each year of junior and senior high that aren't just things that I alone struggled with, but challenges most young people struggle to learn. I wanted to share these.
7th Grade - Emily, you are done with elementary school. Going to junior high may seem scary, but worry not. You are never left to fend for yourself. There are so many adults who are there to look out for you. You have friends, teachers, counselors, and parents who will not let you fail. Literally, I don't think your mum would ever allow you to actually fail a class. But most importantly, you have the Savior. Don't forget to be yourself. You are the best person you can be. You don't need to pretend to be cool. You are enough.
8th grade - You've learned the basic idea of how to get through junior high, and you've learned it wasn't that bad. This year, I want you to remember who your friends are. There are plenty of people that are viewed as popular, but you don't need to be popular to be happy. Don't try to force yourself into a friend group. Find people who share your interests and who make you feel happy. You are surrounded by so many good people. Try looking in a place you wouldn't expect. Good friends are so important!
9th grade - Listen to your mom when she says there may be classes that many people have HATED! She has pretty good resources a lot of the time. If the vast majority didn't like a class, that's a pretty good sign that you shouldn't take it. Grades count now, but it's not always about taking classes that fit requirements. You have lots of options. Take what will help you long term. Maybe a ballroom dance class? Or creative writing? Your options are endless.
10th grade - Hey, you've made it to high school! Congratulations! You'll still find that just because you are at a new school, things still aren't dramatically harder. It's still baby steps. Because of this, get involved! Join clubs! This is a once in a life time opportunity! Try HOPE Squad or Spanish Club! So what if you miss a lunch period or two with the same people? This is a once in a life time opportunity! Take it!!
11th grade - Junior year. Time to get down to business. This year you've got the ACT, AP Classes, and a lot of responsibilities. Remember it's not essential to get 100% all of the time. Know when you've reached your limit and be able to say no. If you aren't happy, why are you doing any of this? Physical, mental, and emotional health are the most important. Also, you're finally realizing that high school does in fact end and friends graduate. Cherish the time you have with these people, but remember that it is not the end. These people are not dying. If someone is important, you will see them. The important ones stick around.
12th grade - YOU ARE SO CLOSE!! Keep going!! Emily, I know last year was a struggle for you. I know you are scared to push yourself that far again. But don't forget all that you can do! You have so much potential. Go out for the school play, or go see it a million times if you don't. Try everything! This is senior year. Spend time with friends. Do well in school, but don't sacrifice irreplaceable memories for a couple points extra in a class. Do crazy things! Kiss a boy, buy a watermelon, make friends with someone you thought was too cool for you. You have so many options! Have fun!
Each year, I learned new things that helped me get through my public school experience. But most of all, I learned that it is important to rely on our Savior, Jesus Christ. He alone can help you through anything. Sometimes life is tricky, but if you look for the lessons you've learned before, there very well might be the answer to help you keep moving forward.
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