The Top 3 Lessons I Learned in High School

By Kyra Gheyara, Student Volunteer

As someone who just graduated from high school and is now heading off to college, I’ve spent the past few months reflecting on my high school experience. While I’m thrilled with where I ended up and how those four years unfolded, there are a few things I wish I had known sooner. If you’re just starting high school or in the midst of it, here are the top three lessons I learned that I hope can help you as well.

1. Do What Feels Right for You, Not Just What “Looks Good”

In freshman year, I felt a lot of pressure to do everything: join every club, take the hardest classes, and follow whatever path seemed most impressive. I thought that was the only way to succeed. But over time, I realized that doing things just because “everyone else is” or because they might look good on a resume isn’t worth it, especially if you’re not enjoying them.

High school should be about exploring new interests, but it’s okay to say no to things that don’t align with your passions or strengths. During junior year, I signed up for AP U.S. History because most of my classmates were taking it. A few weeks in, I realized it wasn’t the right fit. Dropping the class was hard because I worried it would set me back. However, it ended up being one of the best decisions I made. I was able to redirect my energy to subjects I genuinely enjoyed.

When you’re excited about something, you’ll naturally put in more effort, and it’ll come through in everything from your classwork to your college essays. Admissions officers can tell the difference between genuine passion and a checklist of accomplishments.

2. Your Timeline Is Yours Alone

Another big lesson I learned is that everyone moves at their own pace, and that’s perfectly okay. In high school, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to others. I remember feeling stressed when someone mentioned they had already taken the SAT while I hadn’t even started studying, or when a friend got a job and I hadn’t even thought about applying for one.

But here’s the truth: everyone has different circumstances, goals, and definitions of success. What works for one person may not be right for you. Just because someone else’s journey looks a certain way doesn’t make yours any less valid. Focus on what you care about, and trust that things will fall into place when the timing is right. Your achievements are still just as valuable, even if they look different from those around you.

3. Be Present: The Ordinary Moments Matter Most

This is something I didn’t fully understand until I was walking across the stage at graduation. High school isn’t just about working toward an end goal. I spent so much time thinking that graduation was the finish line. But now that it’s over, I’ve realized the things I miss most are the everyday moments like laughing in class, catching up with friends in the hallway, and late-night ice cream runs.

I wish I had taken more time to be in the moment. To say yes to spontaneous hangouts, to attend more club meetings, and to support my friends at their games and performances. College applications and AP exams are important, but so is enjoying the ride while you’re on it. These are the memories that will stick with you long after you’ve moved on.

One thing that helped me stay grounded was journaling each night. For others, it might be weekly check-ins with family, quiet walks, or writing down personal goals. Whatever it looks like for you, make time to pause, reflect, and reconnect with yourself.