As graduation day creeps closer, seniors are starting to look back on where they started, just wide eyed freshmen walking through the halls not knowing what to expect. High school can feel like a blur, full of daunting lessons, sentimental memories, and growth. So we asked some of our graduating seniors, If you could give your freshman self one piece of advice, what would it be? Their answers were full of honesty and proof that high school truly changes you.
For many, the message was clear: get involved early.
Jaylin Rivera Ramos said, “I would tell myself to get volunteer hours and join as many clubs as possible.”
Zainab Sobhi agreed, encouraging underclassmen to “get out there and try everything. Join a sport even if you’ve never played, sign up for clubs even if your friends don’t… challenge yourself from the start.”
Others reflected on the personal growth they experienced.
Amber Ballard said she’d tell her freshman self to “Just not care what others think, and to talk to others because they’re not scary” Amber ballard laughed. Avery Uhlmer kept it blunt but real: “Don’t take everything so seriously and just be chill.”
Katie Conti had some advice about self worth and time: “Don’t entertain supposed friends just because you feel you have to. Interests change. You don’t need to stay stagnant and predictable.”
This doesn’t just apply to friendships, but also to trying new things in life. Always doing the same things just because they’re comfortable can stop people from growing. Trying new activities or learning something different can help people discover new interests and become more confident. It’s okay to change and step out of your comfort zone.
Caitlin Gardner echoed that with a focus on balance: “Don’t overwork yourself. School is your job until you have a plan, and it’s important to prioritize it… it’ll always pay off.”
This shows how important it is to stay focused on school, but also not to push too hard. Keeping a good balance between work and rest helps avoid burnout and makes it easier to stay on track with goals.
Kaitlin Smith reminded us all that while grades and goals matter, so does having fun: “Find a good balance between having fun with your friends and doing your work… High school goes by much faster than you expect, so it’s important to savor every moment.”
High school isn’t only about studying and getting good grades. It’s also a time to make memories, spend time with friends, and enjoy the little things. Finding a balance between work and fun helps make the high school experience more meaningful and memorable. At the end of day, you only get to experience high school once, so don’t just make it miserable and all about your school work, make it worth remembering.
Shoba Afghan put it beautifully: “Time management is everything. Learn how to balance fun, studies, and rest. Don’t rush high school because those days will not come back. Let your feet guide you towards light and joy.”
Ashley Montes had a similar perspective, urging underclassmen to “take advantage of every single moment to make memories with your friends.” And finally, Issac Estevez summed it all up perfectly: “These could be either the best four years of your life, or the worst, but you determine what your outcome is gonna be.”
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed as a freshman, but what all of these seniors show is that you grow, you learn, and somehow, you make it through. High school might not be perfect, but it teaches you a lot about friendship, priorities, time, and who you are becoming.
To the incoming freshmen, take this advice seriously. To the Class of 2025, this is your moment. Be proud of how far you’ve come. You’ve earned it.
