My Advice to Incoming Freshmen by Alexis

My Advice to Incoming Freshmen by Alexis - March 2019 Scholarship Essay

If I were to lead a tour for my school, Mount Saint Dominic Academy, for members of the incoming freshmen class, and was asked to give them one piece of advice it would be to enjoy their four short years in high school. Although this advice may sound cliche, I would further develop my answer by explaining the true meaning behind the phrase by giving them examples of what I mean.
As an incoming freshmen, many told me that I should not wish to grow up fast, but instead live in the moment because when my four years of high school were over, I would regret wanting to speed them up. Now, speaking as a current senior, I can validate this statement. Throughout my years in high school I regret speeding up certain memories, such as pep rallies, birthday celebrations, sports games, study sessions with friends, weekend hangouts, and even stressful situations, not because I miss worrying, but because I miss getting through tough situations with my friends.
I would continue my explanation by informing the incoming freshmen of the importance of friends. Before high school, my friends from school, were friends. Meaning I would see them Monday through Friday, and sometimes on the weekends because of sports, but for the most part that was it. When entering high school, the definitions of friends changed for me. Instead, the friends I made in high school became my family, my sisters, and the people who I trusted the most. Not only did my friends help me find true self in high school, but they also acted as a support system for me in times of need.
As my tour comes to an end, my last piece of advice for the soon to be freshmen would be to enjoy every moment of high school, whether it be when they are stressing over an exam they have, deciding what to wear for a night out with friends, contemplating what birthday gifts to surprise your friends with, or even playing sports and developing long lasting relationships on and off the court/field. High school is not only a place to learn, but it is also a place to find yourself for who you truly want to be. It is also a place for you to go from a young, innocent adolescent to a mature, knowledgeable adult ready to take on any challenges or obstacles put in your way.