High school is not always the best experience. There is drama, restrictions and people who will try to bring you down. These things are inevitable. When you cram immature teenagers in a building for 40 hours a week, then there is bound to be conflict, but it is up to you to make the most of it. Here are a few things I’ve learned so far:

1. People will hurt you. It doesn’t matter who you are or how close you are to that person. Humans have a destructive nature.
2.  Find people to confide in. One or two is enough. You’re not invincible. You can’t face high school by yourself, trust me I’ve tried. It’s healthy to be able to vent or just simply talk to someone that you trust.
3. Try to not make enemies. The more people that like you, the better. You don’t have to be best friends with everyone you meet, but don’t hesitate to share a smile or lend a hand when needed. It’ll pay off.
4. Be involved. You’re not “too cool,” Joining clubs, sports and extracurricular activities gives you an opportunity to step outside your normal peer group and make new friends. (Activities also look great on a college résumé.)
5.  Worry about you. No matter what, do you because at the end of the day, that’s all you have left. Make goals for yourself and work hard to achieve them.

Once you graduate, you hit the real world, which is a completely different ball game. All the drama will be trivial, and you will be focused on trying to make a life for yourself. Most importantly, when you feel down, look toward the future with optimism, because every day is a new opportunity to be something great.