5 things I would tell my freshman self...

This was simultaneously a sad and fun post to write. I cannot even fathom the fact that I am a senior, but I am really ready and excited for the next chapter in my life (college)! I have a lot to find out still, but I have learned a lot in these 4 years- so here are 5 things I would tell schlubby freshman emma :))

1. PLEASEEEEEE DO NOT care what other people think!! I cannot stress this enough. The amount of time I wasted worrying about how other people perceived me is frustrating, because I could have spent that time doing things that I loved & cared about. I would have become more confident and secure with myself if I just did what I wanted- and didn't care who may have judged me for it. Because if they waste time judging me for doing what makes me happy- I don't really value their opinion anyway. :)

2. Form proper study habits. Now, freshman me was an EXPERT procrastinator, and if that method works well for you and doesn't stress you out- then go for it. But this made me even more anxious about my schoolwork than I already was, so I was doing myself a disservice by putting it off and getting easily distracted. It sucks in the moment to use your school time doing work- but it is WORTH IT in the long run!

3. Go to every school dance, football game, concert, party you want!! Really just live it up. I def did this my junior year, but my sophomore and freshman year I wish I was more involved in the fun aspects of school because it literally goes by SO FAST! Value your grades and learning, but also value the fun parts of high school- don't let it pass you by without you taking advantage of those fun opportunities!!

4. Do not put your energy into people who don't value you! Life is really too short to waste it being fake, or spending your time on people who are fake. Whether it's a friendship or relationship, you want to spend your time on people who care about you as much as you care about them.

5. Cherish those friends that ARE amazing! Never put a relationship over a friendship- because those friends are the ones that are gonna be there for you if it ends. Live life up with your people- and don't be afraid to reach out and make tons of new friends and connections along the way!

I look back on so many of the things that I thought were big deals during my freshman year and think about how small and how they don’t have an affect on my life AT ALL anymore. So try your best to not sweat the small things and to soak in every fun, carefree moment. Remember to be KIND, to show love, to make NEW friends, and to be there for one other. Every one’s journeys are different and every one struggles and goes through hardships.

xo, emma ☻