1. HuffPost 7/18/14 by Carly Steyer

2. I used to think first impressions were overrated. High school taught me that they aren't’. This applies to teachers and friends. Be authentic, but try to start off on the right foot. It’s natural for people to remember their first impression of you more than the following ones. Be mindful of your bad habits. Play up your strengths. You’ll be glad you did in the long run.

3. There’s nothing wrong with wanting to look good on the first day of school, or every day after that for the rest of the year. But don’t stand in the mirror second-guessing every item of clothing you try on. Choose your outfit based on what allows you to feel confident and comfortable, instead of what other people will think. People will catch on to sincere confidence before they take note of what shirt or shoes you’re wearing.

4. Try out for teams. Audition for productions. Run for student government. With so much to do, there’s really no time to sit there questioning whether or not you’re good enough o make it; just go for it. You’ll never know if you don’t try. Things that feel like failure or rejection in the short term end up being some of the most meaningful and valuable experiences, even though they're tough.

5. Junior and seniors aren't scary; they just want you to think they are. They're not going to hurt you. They don’t rule the whole school. They aren't’ on a mission to embarrass you. In fact, for the most part, they don’t pay too much mind to the younger kids. Just show respect. Don’t mouth off. You’re not too much younger, but you’re still younger.

6. Being in the “cool” or “popular” group does not automatically make a person cool. That’s not to say that there aren’t popular kids who are cool, interesting, and fun. But there’s nothing particularly cool about them that separates them from everyone else. And there are just as many kids who reject the “cool ‘ label who still have really cool skills, personal stories, hobbies, and are worth getting to know.

7. No single grade is going to determine your fate. One grade is not worth your tears.

8. When I started to get to know my teachers, I found quite a few who were really easy to talk to, had really good advice, and were very admirable overall. Teachers will notice when you take time to get to know them. They can be valuable resources, and not just in an academic sense.

9. My group members would probably say that I was overbearing, controlling and not easy to work with. I was. I wanted everything to be done right, I worked with plenty of peers who didn’t put enough effort in. Leaving more work for me. But it’s really important to communicate with whoever you’re working with. Working in a group can be insanely frustrateing, but it’s a very important skill.

10. Some teachers are harsh at first because they want to establish themselves as authoritative figures. Some teachers take a few weeks or even months to adjust to your class’s personality. Giving them some time and space you will see that it gets better.

11. You are not immune to exhaustion. You need to sleep, perhaps now more than ever. If you don’t get enough sleep, you’ll suffer consequences. It’s that simple.

12. High school is the first time in your life when you really have to start juggling lots of obligations without a lot of help. It’s also the first time you realize how key time management is. Striking the right balance is the hardest thing I tackled in high school. Harder than any test, any fight with a friend. It’s an ongoing process, but it’s immeasurably important.