It's hard to imagine we have an 18-year old and she's headed to college next month. Wow, it's true what they say "the days are long and the years are short". We really only have 17-18 summers with our children before they run off to chart their own path.
We're incredibly proud of our scholar, athlete, and all around good citizen (who by the way volunteered over 100 hours of community service during high school). She's not only an incredible person, but she is thoughtful and will be majoring in marine biology (in an effort to make our oceans a better environment for its inhabitants).
I was thinking back on being 18 and what I wish I knew then based on what I've learned over the time. Here's a few of the things I plan to share with our daughter as she heads to school.
- Trust yourself. You are strong and able. Believe that.
- Ask for help. You are not an island. You may go farther faster with support.
- Be cognizant of time. It is a great asset that you can never recover.
- Be true to yourself. If you look in the mirror, make sure you are not staring at a stranger.
- Everyday is a new day to be the person you want to be. Strive to be her!
- Prioritize self care. Make sure your mental and physical health are not neglected. Eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep (I know, lol).
- Manage your money. Still seek out scholarships and learn to budget.
- Read. Name a millionaire and you'll find that they credit a portion of their success to seeking wisdom through reading.
- Stay focused. You have one job (ace college). You can do it!
- Be open to the possibilities. Explore new things, places, and interests to broaden your horizons.
- Get involved. Find things (clubs, organizations) that interest you so you can learn the power of networking.
- Celebrate your achievements. Be proud of your accomplishments (and we will certainly be cheering with you).
- Practice balance - there is school, social, and stuff. Enjoy it all.
- Stay open-minded. Embrace diversity and experiences.
- Seek internships and work experience. You are meant to stand out (this will help with that).
- Challenge yourself. Advocate for yourself.
- Be resilient. There will be setbacks. Just remember to keep going!
- Stay connected. Yes, this means text and call us often. We will miss you! xo
As you navigate this next stop along the journey of life, know that we have your back. We will be here for any reason, any situation, or any conversation. This is the time to challenge yourself, establish boundaries, and enjoy the journey. We couldn't be more proud of you and look forward to seeing all that will be revealed in the coming years.