Instead of writing this article about my greatest hits over the last four years, I want to take this space to shed some light on how to not only make it through high school, but to excel at it. These are the ‘do’s and don’ts’  I wish someone told me before I started my senior year.

Do: Start thinking about college and possible career paths now. High school is all about trying to hone in on what you’re best at—how you can benefit society the most. Take a variety of classes—go out of your comfort zone and figure out which field interests you the most.

Thinking about it ahead of your senior year can help you avoid checking off that ‘undecided’ box, instead of a major for college. Now that’s not saying that you need to know exactly what you want to do before you receive that diploma, but having an idea of your options can really benefit your education in the long run. Don’t let procrastination consume you; plan and prepare for a better tomorrow, week, and year.

Don’t: Become just ‘one of the crowd’. Make yourself known—dive into the NH community to avoid becoming stranded in a sea of ordinary. Like I explained earlier, high school is about finding out who you are—what your style is and who you’re ultimately striving to become. So make it count! Do what you love and stand your ground against those who wish to change what makes you, you.

Do: Talk to your teachers. They don’t bite—they’re here to help in anyway possible, so ask for it. They’re literally being paid to support and build on your education, and most of them actually do love their job. Take full advantage of it; go to the study sessions they hold for AP testing, get tutored in your weakest subject, and ask for assistance when you’re falling behind in class. Many students fail to see what’s right in front of them—genuine people who can strengthen your future. All you have to do is ask.

Don’t: Waste your last chance of being a kid by growing up too fast. Many of us turn 18 when or before we graduate, so high school is our last opportunity to truly be a kid. Yes, it’s important to get a job to help pay for college and that shiny, red Corvette you’ve wanted since you were ten, but remember: you’ll be working for the rest of your life.

So enjoy the absence of major responsibilities; join as many clubs as you can, try out for the musical or a sports team, sign up for yearbook and journalism—don’t just go through high school because you have to, but come in every morning wanting to make the most out of a free education.