If given the opportunity to return to high school, there are certainly several aspects I would approach differently:
- Fully Embrace Physical Education: Imagine having fifty minutes of daily physical activity with guidance from a coach! I would seize this unique chance and participate in every sport available. I would set aside any lingering insecurities about my body and dive into P.E. with the enthusiasm of an athlete at the starting line of a major race. Let’s go!
- Prioritize Friendships with My Female Peers: In retrospect, I wish I had dedicated more time to nurturing my friendships with girls rather than getting caught up in the pursuit of romantic interests. These bonds, which can be so enriching and supportive, deserve attention and respect. I now recognize that these connections will become increasingly rare as life progresses, so I would focus on cherishing these moments instead of chasing after boys.
- Appreciate My Educators: Back in the day, teachers often felt like adversaries. However, with maturity, I now understand their dedication to shaping lives despite facing challenges like low pay and lack of recognition. I would engage actively in class discussions, take advantage of diverse learning opportunities—whether music, drama, or even auto mechanics—and appreciate the wealth of knowledge they offer. Discussing literature with English teachers? A dream come true. But math? I’ll pass.
- Find My Passion and Own It: High school made it clear that math and science were not my strengths, yet I was hesitant to admit it. I would now confidently express my interests and prioritize my love for literature over fitting into a mold. There’s no need to pretend to enjoy subjects that don’t resonate with me, especially when I could be discussing the works of great authors with the librarian instead.
- Engage with Diverse Groups: I would make a concerted effort to reach out to those who I previously overlooked—the creatives, the introverts, the unconventional thinkers. Their unique perspectives and talents could lead to rich friendships and experiences that I missed out on. Reflecting on the inspiring people I know now, many of them were probably the ones I ignored in high school. A second chance to connect with them? Yes, please!
As my son prepares to begin his senior year, I wonder if he will experience similar feelings of regret or contemplation. Regardless, this phase is a stepping stone to college, where he views the opportunity to reinvent himself. If only I could go back to college as well—though I must admit, it was pretty perfect the first time, sans cell phone cameras.
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In summary, reflecting on high school evokes a desire to engage differently, prioritizing friendships, appreciating educators, and embracing individuality. Each experience shapes who we become, and it’s never too late to learn from the past.