Emma James
Even though I’m a whole sentimental sap by now, I’ll try to keep this short and sweet. So, to the oh-so-many people who feel obligated to read this, you’re welcome.
Sleep less. (This is my more inventive version of the heinous “try new things!”) There’s only twenty-four hours in the day, and, let’s be fair, teens can survive on six hours of sleep. If you’re anything like me, for better or for worse, you’re gonna regret wasting a second not pursuing something that makes your life cooler. Busy people are happy (albeit a little crazy) people.
Focus on today. Milton kids, and probably most high-achieving adolescents, have a habit of regretting a lot from the past and worrying a lot about the future. Acknowledge that the you of yesteryear was likely a little cringey, breathe, and let it go. Accept that tomorrow is probably a crisis, but have faith that you’ll make it through, because the Powers That Be don’t throw you obstacles you can’t overcome.
Spend time in the sunshine. It’ll make you happier. (That’s so classic, Emma.)
Break a few rules. Grammar rules, of course! I do love ending on a good preposition…
Be grateful. I spent too much of my time at Milton complaining, and chances are, you have too. This place is challenging, we all know that, but if you do it right, so rewarding. We’re all lucky fools to have this opportunity and those behind every door this school has opened for us. Gratitude is a skill, and we should be practicing it every day, at Milton and beyond.
Treat yourself with respect. I had days here where I didn’t want to get up in the morning because nothing I do could possible measure up to freakish expectations I set myself up to fail. Instead of forgiving and appreciating myself, I had “screw it!” moments of like, kinda harmful behaviors. Looking back on those times, I wish I’d taken a sec to call a friend and, honestly, as corny as this sounds, be validated for who I was. Friends are precious and really do want to listen to and support you.
Milton has changed my life in ways even I can’t fully understand yet. I’ve met some really damn fantastic people, students and adults alike, in classes, in the dorm, in the Development Office, on teams, in productions, and beyond campus through the alum network, connections that have helped me become who I am today. So, I’ll quit it with the awful cliches, and just thank everyone I’ve met here for being so sincerely grand. I’m humbled to have gone through this wild ride with you all.
Fondly,
Emma