I didn’t think this time would actually come, but it has. We are graduating this year.  I know, I can’t really believe it either. These four years of high school have dragged, but flown by at the same time. I guess we really are growing up, and well I guess it’s also time to figure out what we want with our lives.

Some of us are off to college, others into the armed forces, the work force, or maybe even just some time off.  No one knows what is going to happen in the future, but we can at least try and determine our path.

For those of us off to college, the process is in full swing. Early decision applicants, are already submitting their applications. Regular decision still have some time, and may still be contemplating which college they want to attend. This is seriously a stressful process. These colleges are going to be our lives, and we don’t want to make the wrong choice now, and pay for it later. We have to visit campuses, think about our intended majors, what type college atmosphere we want. It is a lot to do in a little amount of time. My advice to any junior is start now. Do not blow it off. I know it may seem a bit early, but it won’t hurt to have an idea of what you want to do.

Going into the armed forces is also a really big decision. You are making a commitment to this country, and the citizens of this country. It is not something you can decide over night. Thinking about all of the risks you are taking, your family and friends that you are leaving behind; it is a lot to decide on. You have to meet with recruiters, and look into exactly what you want to do. Maybe you want to go to school first, then join, or vice versa. All of this has to be decided on before you are sworn in.

There is also nothing wrong with taking a few years off. It does not make you lazy, or a bad student, some of us need time away. You can go work to save up money, and take the time to become more prepared. Possibly even finalize your decision of whether you want to go to college at all or not. School is not for everyone. Some people are happier not going to college, and just continuing their lives working with something they love. It all depends on the person, and what they want.

A lot of pressure is put on us during these times. It does get really overwhelming, I’m not going to lie. I can’t even count how many times I have had to just stop, and take a break from the college search. It is very frustrating, and I get annoyed with it really easily.

The point is the rest of our lives, are ahead of us, and we just have to decide what we want to do with them.  This year is our year, we need to enjoy it, but also be smart about it.  There are a lot of things to look forward to, Senior Dinner Dance, Senior Trip, Seniors VS. Faculty games. These are the memories, that will last a life time.  I guess we can say that the end has come with a new beginning.