If you think about it, high school really isn’t that bad.

To clarify, not every part of the educational experience is likable.  Between essays, exams, and extracurriculars, the amount of sleep I get per night hasn’t surpassed five hours since eighth grade.  Sometimes, I, like every other student in this school, struggle with the decision of whether or not it’s even worth it to show up, wondering how it can possibly be legal to have to leave for school while the moon is still out.

But between the bells, after the tests, during the late-night study sessions, is when life happens.  We find in ourselves who we are meant to be, entering this intimidating brick building confused and overwhelmed, and leaving still somewhat confused and overwhelmed at the close of each year, but with an ultimate sense of accomplishment and a path leading us toward the direction of whom we will become.

Our character is shaped by the challenges presented to us.  Without the daily struggles and difficulties presented in school, many of us wouldn’t have developed an unbreakable work ethic and the ability to be productive and high-functioning in the face of stress and fatigue (with the help of caffeine).

High school really is what you make it.  The fact of the matter is this: if you walk in every day with a negative attitude, you’re going to have an awful time. Nothing here is handed to you, and a good experience is no exception to that rule.  Making the best of your time here is the only way you’ll ever have any positive memories.

Similarly, stop complaining! We’re all tired and have tests; sorry to say it, but you’re not a special snowflake.  Everyone here has struggles from time to time, but mourning your lack of sleep or wailing about a chemistry midterm isn’t going to make the situation any better.  Like I said, you have to look on the bright side, even when everything feels like it’s falling apart.  In the end, all of the pieces fall into place, even if you’re a little sleep deprived.

Not to say I don’t do any of these things (because I do), but in times of stress and exhaustion, I try to remember that in less than a year we’ll all be out of here, armed with nothing but memories and what we learned.  To think that there are people here I may never see again is a strange thought, but it is our reality.

As we say goodbye to our seniors and welcome the underclassmen, remember this: our time here is short, so be kind, work hard, and leave the best legacy possible.

Here’s to the Class of 2017; let’s make our last year together the best it can be.