dear senior year of high school, 18-year-old amy,
don't worry so much about which college you go to in the end. you'll find your way eventually.
but also don't think that florida to maine will be an easy transition. a 24-hour L.L. Bean (sup, freeport, maine!) is not something to mess with.
take advantage of those long college summers - those summers in new york, in philly, in boston. in all the big cities on the east coast that draw you in with the people, the lights, the action. you'll learn more about yourself those summers than you ever thought possible.
don't worry about what major you choose. you'll become insanely passionate about public health, about listening to people and ideas and thoughts, about those in need of more.
don't worry if you're uncomfortable. you're supposed to feel this way to grow.
come your senior year of college, (still) no one will care that you went to elementary school with mandy moore.
don't stress about keeping in touch with old friends. the good ones will be there when you need them.
you'll meet people who inspire you, who confuse you, who teach you, who make you question where you stand in this world. and you'll love every second of it.
coffee will soon be your best friend.
lastly, bring more socks to college than you can fit in your suitcase. you'll thank yourself when the last thing you want to do is laundry at 2 am on sunday night.
love, amy
"progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything."
- george bernard shaw
