With summer right around the corner, high school is going to end soon for some and begin soon for others. High school is both the longest and shortest time of your life- as school and classes drag on forever, but the four years seem to fly by. As the class of 2016 prepares to make their final transition from high school to life beyond, we asked them to give some advice to their younger counterparts who will, before they know it, be planning their own walk across the Mt. St. Mary’s stage. Here’s what they had to say:

“Get involved. You’ll only regret the plans you didn’t make and the events you didn’t take part in” –Julie Williams

“Always try your hardest because I didn’t study freshmen year, and I thought I would be ok. However, as junior and senior year approached I realized how important grades are, even freshmen year grades, for college” –Becca Via

“There are so many opportunities in high school. Take advantage of them” –Kallin Hughes

“Play a sport” –Rhashad Johnson

“Don’t take anything too seriously” –Nick Markoff

“There’s no advice to getting through high school. Just figure it out” –Will Broberg

“Don’t care about what anyone thinks of you” –Ryan Bonanno

“Get a job as early as possible and save your money” –Aubrey Sicat

“Pack your own lunch” –Dominic Lizambri

“Be open to meeting new people. Don’t always stick to the same group” –Isabella Mendiola

“You aren’t going to be good at everything. Learn to excel at what you’re good, at and accept what you’re not good at” –Colleen Keefe

“Make friends early” –Anonymous

“Take challenging classes that will prepare you for the future” –Stephen Frocke

“Try to relax. Everybody is nervous. It’s a new experience, and you may not know anybody, but most people are looking to make friends. They’re in the same boat as you” –Anonymous

“Be nice to everyone. Don’t start drama” –Tim Kuhens

“Make it a great day, or day, not. The choice is yours” –Kathleen Schlappal