Dear class of 2026,

Hello! This is your older (senior) sibling writing to give you some tips and tricks on how to survive high school in one shape. Because hey-we will be the first ones to tell you that high school can be ROUGH at times. But that is not really high school’s fault; that is just life. But if we made it this far, so can you. Here is some advice. 

Okay yes, high school is NOT easy breezy lemon squeezy, nor is it anything like the movies. But you have probably figured that out by now (even if you have only been a freshman for about a month). But, there are good parts! There are some REALLY good parts. There will be times when you are laughing so hard in the cafeteria, and times when you are screaming at the top of your lungs at a pep assembly or volleyball game, or when you take the most stunning pictures right before a school dance. High school is not all school work, and if you make it all school work, then your high school experience will not be as great as it could be. Now, do not get me wrong: do your homework! But, do not just do homework. 

High school is also a great time for self-discovery and change. Whether you want to or not, you will change during high school. Maybe not a lot or maybe not in the way you think you will, but you will change. And be open to change! Be open-minded to new experiences and people! One of the benefits of going to such a big school is that there is a place for everyone. If there is something that you are interested in, there is probably a club or class for it; if not, you can start a club! Perry is full of very unique people with diverse backgrounds. No matter who you are or what you like (or do not like) there is a place for you. 

If we had to go back in time and give our freshmen selves some advice, we would tell them the following. If you feel like everyone hates you, take a nap. If you feel like you hate yourself, take a shower. If you feel like you hate everyone, eat. If you feel like you hate life, go to the gym. These little gems of advice may not solve everything, but they sure can help. 

Honestly, life is what you make it, so let’s make it rock! (Yes, like the Hannah Montana song.) High school can be a crappy experience, or it can be kinda fun!! It really is up to you. 

Sincerely,

Class of 2023