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From Graduation Gowns to the Great Unknown: Five Things I Wish Students Had Learned in High School
Watching students walk across the stage at high school graduation is a beautiful, bittersweet moment. As they move their tassels, we celebrate the algebra, literature, and history they’ve mastered. But after 25 years of helping students transition into the college world, I’ve realized that being prepared for this next chapter isn’t just about the academics you’ve mastered—it’s about the mindset you carry with you.
As you look toward the future, here are five things I wish you had learned in high school—and what I want you to know as you enter college.
1. I Wish You Learned How to Be Fair to Yourself
In his classic book, Robert Fulghum suggested that “all I ever needed to know I learned in kindergarten,” including the simple idea that we should be fair. While that’s great advice for sharing cookies, it becomes even more important when you consider the bigger picture. It is often easy to be fair to others, but much harder to be fair to yourself. You deserve the same grace and fairness that you so readily give to those around you.
2. I Wish You Learned That “Not Knowing” Is a Gift
Students sometimes feel like they are supposed to have all the answers. Somewhere along the way, the idea takes root that “not knowing” is a sign of failure. It isn’t. Being sincerely curious and intellectually humble is a gift. It’s okay to be wrong. It’s okay to rethink. And it is a sign of strength to remain open to ideas that challenge the way things have “always been done.”
3. I Wish You Learned to Fail Fast
Many students hesitate to try something unless they are certain they can do it perfectly. I’ve even had students tell me they would rather receive a zero than do an assignment poorly. That mindset is damaging. It is far better to try, especially when the stakes are low. Learn to recover from setbacks and recognize that failure is not the end—it is part of the process. Curiosity becomes much more rewarding when you are not paralyzed by perfectionism.
4. I Wish You Learned You Only Need to Take the Next Step
Students are often taught—directly or indirectly—that they need to have their entire lives figured out by age 18. As Christians, we believe the Lord has a path for each of us, but it is not our job to see the whole map at once. Our responsibility is simply to take the next step. You are not powerful enough to derail God’s plan for your life. Faithfulness in the next step is enough.
5. I Wish You Learned to Escape the Comparison Trap
Social media has made comparison a constant temptation. But you cannot measure your life against someone else’s highlight reel. Instead, learn to see yourself the way the Lord sees you- created intentionally, in God’s image. When you let go of comparison, you are finally free to become the person you were created to be.
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As you prepare to turn the page and begin a new journey, remember: you don’t need to have all the answers to begin.
If you’re looking for a place where you can ask big questions, find your voice, and take that next step of faith in a supportive community, we would love to meet you.
We invite you to join us at the Mississippi Christian University Department of Communication. Here, we value your curiosity, your growth, and your unique story as we prepare you for a life of meaningful connection and service. You will learn to communicate with your words, your skill and your life. Come find your place in the MC family!
By: J. Mignon Kucia, Ph.D., A.P.R.
Professor, Department of Communication
Mississippi Christian University