We’ve given a lot of advice during the past few years, and it’s been a highlight of our time at Friends. But you’ve heard enough from us. In our last edition of SPICE Advice, we compiled pieces of wisdom from every member of the senior class. Here’s what they have to say to the students they leave behind: 

Get involved.

Elaina and Eva say, “get involved in everything.” Erika says, “you’re going to want the memories,” and Kaleb says this is a great way to “find your voice.”  Specifically, Ramsey says, “go to lots of sports games!” and Lulu agrees: “Go to all the school events you can, especially FNBs.” Laya says, “Have fun, be involved, and fill out the Google forms in your email.” Anna advises, “don’t waste community days doing quiet study—join a new club,” and Adam says, “get involved with clubs as a freshman.” For example, Scarlett tells you to, “join GSA!” Ben sums it up: “Participate.” 

Try new things.

Chloe advises you to “branch out and try new things” and Devin agrees: “Trust yourself and be open to learning new things.” Louisa says, “take advantage of the opportunities that are presented to you,” while Connor says, “Explore different opportunities.” Henry agrees, recommending, “Go outside your comfort zone.” Yipeng says, “Persevere through what has challenged you and push through.” Todd adds, “Don’t be afraid to take risks!”

Talk to lots of people.

Isabel C. says, “talk to everyone,” and Sophia agrees: “Talk to as many new people as you can.” Ella We. says, “Don’t be embarrassed to try new things and talk to lots of people.” Maya W. reminds you to “talk to people in different grades!”

Find good friends.

Braeden says, “Find your people to help you find balance in life.” Isa advises, “don’t get caught up in gossip and drama,” and Vanya promises, “as cheesy as it sounds, literally just be yourself and everything will work out.”

Connect with your teachers.

Lizzy tells you to “talk to your teachers” and Asa elaborates: “Create personal connections with your teachers—it pays off and makes your classes more enjoyable.” Will agrees, saying, “Make sure you do your work on time, connect with your teachers, and just have fun with it.”

Pursue your passions.

Ella Wi. encourages you to “do things that you love” and Noah P. says, “Do what you love, and love what you do.” Victoria agrees: “Challenge yourself and take risks, but don’t forget to do the things you love.” For Ashley, this means “play Fortnite.”

Start early but don’t overthink college.

Isabelle R. says, “study for the SAT now,” and Tommy thinks you should “do your Common App essay early,” while Sam P. says, “Don’t overthink college.”

Don’t procrastinate.

Ejaz’s advice rolls off the tongue: “better late than never but never late is better.” Lily and Solomon agree, saying, “don’t procrastinate,” and, “don’t put things off.” Khalil tells you to “stay on top of your stuff,” and Ulysses specifies, “check your Assignment Center,” while Caroline adds, “Read your email.” Tatyana sums it up: “Stay locked in.” 

Get your service hours done.

Asuman says, “do your community service hours early,” and Alana echoes him: “Do your service hours and get senior privileges!”

Cherish your time here.

Ethan and Quentin say, “appreciate every day,” and, “enjoy the little moments.” “Be present and stay in the moment,” says Arielle. Mai tells you to “enjoy your time and have fun!” Adina advises, “enjoy the opportunity to learn with your friends,” while Paul tells you to “recognize how lucky you are to be at this school and be happy.” Ella P. says, “The more you invest in this community the more meaningful your time here will be.” Alexandra points out “cherish your time because it goes by quickly.” Sora agrees, saying, “Don’t take your time for granted because it’s gonna be over before you know it.” Matthew puts it simply: “Seize the day!”

Take care of yourself.

Rhyan reminds you that, “Your mental health is important—sometimes you need to take a break.” Leif points out one of these simple things: “Pack your own lunch,” while Ronan reminds you to “take your medication.” Layla says, “Get a job. There’s always something to pay for.” Noah L. has another practical reminder: “Never trust new, untested technology.”

Stop worrying so much.

Sam B. tells you to just “chill out” and Koko says “Don’t fret, everything will work out.” Max echoes, “don’t take things too seriously and don’t waste your time being embarrassed about stuff,” while Lia promises, “People weren’t even paying attention. You don’t have to care that you tripped.” Sachin says, “don’t take it too seriously,” and Tessa clarifies, “Don’t take any one thing too seriously.” If you’re overwhelmed, Qadar says, “Make a plan and take it step by step.” Khadejah advises, “live in the moment more,” and Maya P. adds, “Stop being so anxious about everything.” Clai points out that sometimes you just need to “keep showing up.”

It’s going to be ok.

Natalie says, “Just relax and enjoy the time you have!” Mason tells you to “always be positive,” while Noah J. says, “It’s ok to not be ok. Let yourself experience the bad moments.” Either way, Rosa concludes, “Just remember to smile!”