As exciting as graduation might be to some students, the thought of leaving what I’ve known for the past 12 years of my life is off­-putting to say the least. I’ve been able to get away with a care­free life, not tied down to bills, a job, or any things that come with adult life. I’ve lived blissfully dependent on my parents’ finances, which I’m thankful for.

High school didn’t require me to make any decisions that would make considerable changes in my life. But with graduation arriving quickly, I realize that I don’t know exactly what I want to do with my career, with my education, and with my life. That’s worrisome especially when I constantly hear of the plans of my peers. They all seem so prepared, a feeling of which I find myself envious. Their lives are laid out for the next four years while I often don’t even know the day of the week.

I often ask myself and others what I should do with my life. I try to learn from the mistakes of others, my parents especially. I wish to do as I please without the constant overwhelming burden of finances, or lack thereof. I see those people though, those who earn a considerable amount of money but end up hating their lives or those who want to enjoy their lives and were previously happy but are tied down because of poverty. I want to enjoy my job and be able to finance doing other things I enjoy.

Unfortunately, it’s not that simple. Without the proper ability to plan anything, I’ll have no clue what I need to actually accomplish that goal. I don’t know what income would let me survive and thrive. I don’t even know what jobs I could enjoy, having no employment experience of my own.

I have what high school has given me: friends, experience, and confidence, all earned through my involvement in extra­curriculars. Without debate, without The Rider, I wouldn’t have had a positive outlook on life; instead I would remain the apathetic Henry I was when I enrolled at Legacy my freshman year. I’m very glad that I was a part of Legacy. I regret to leave that behind to an uncertain future.

Your GPA doesn’t define you; your character, hard work, and passions do. Do well in school, but more importantly, get involved. Focus on bettering yourself and your friendships will improve. You’ll start loving the things you hate, and what was previously difficult will now be done with ease and you’ll be much happier. You decide what high school will be for you, so make it good. I did. And I don’t want to leave that behind.