19 answers
Farida
Student
Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
10
Questions
Asked
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I'm in 10th grade, what do you wish somebody told you when you were in 10th grade?
Being a high schooler, especially one with only 2 more years before graduation is difficult and stressful for many.
What is some advice you would give your 10th grade self now, that maybe I could benefit from?
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19 answers
Ivuelekwa Michael
Script writer
7
Answers
Owerri, Imo, Nigeria
Updated
Ivuelekwa’s Answer
Find a path and fall in love with it , for this path will guide you through success in college!.
Thank you for answering my question, I really appreciate it and will 100% be taking your advice!
Farida
Monique Polk
2
Answers
Detroit, Michigan
Updated
Monique’s Answer
Hi Karina, that's a fantastic question! Tenth grade is such an exciting time. Make sure to enjoy every moment. Dive into your friendships, hobbies, and interests. Don't stress about having everything figured out—just enjoy being young. When you find what you love, use that as a stepping stone to discover your true passion and career path!
Loved reading this, thanks! I definitely will look forward to all that is to come.
Farida
Yasmin Mohamed Alamin
Clinical Nutrition Student
63
Answers
Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
Updated
Yasmin’s Answer
Hi Farida👋🏻...
I wish someone told me in 10th grade to focus on balance Don't get so caught up in stress about grades and college that you forget to enjoy learning and your hobbies
Also start exploring your interests early Try different clubs, volunteer work, or projects so you can figure out what really excites you Colleges notice real passion more than just perfect grades
Time management is huge Start practicing it now even with small things It makes everything later easier
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help Teachers, mentors, or older students can give advice and open opportunities that you wouldn’t find on your own
I wish someone told me in 10th grade to focus on balance Don't get so caught up in stress about grades and college that you forget to enjoy learning and your hobbies
Also start exploring your interests early Try different clubs, volunteer work, or projects so you can figure out what really excites you Colleges notice real passion more than just perfect grades
Time management is huge Start practicing it now even with small things It makes everything later easier
Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help Teachers, mentors, or older students can give advice and open opportunities that you wouldn’t find on your own
Thank you for answering my question! I truly appreciate your advice, and love how you formatted each and every single thing I will definitely continue on to do.
Farida
Rugvedh Rugvedh
high school student
2
Answers
Montgomery, New Jersey
Updated
Rugvedh’s Answer
If I could go back and talk to my 10th grade self, the first thing I would say is this: you don’t need to have everything figured out right now—and that’s completely okay. In 10th grade, it often feels like time is running fast and every decision will define your entire future. In reality, this stage of life is about exploration, growth, and learning how you work, not about being perfect.
I would remind myself to focus more on building strong habits rather than chasing short-term results. Learning how to manage time, stay consistent, ask for help when needed, and recover from setbacks matters far more than one test score or one bad semester. These habits will carry you through high school, college, and life far beyond graduation.
Another thing I wish I understood earlier is that comparison is a trap. Everyone grows at a different pace. Some people discover their passion early, others much later—and both paths are valid. Instead of measuring yourself against others, focus on becoming a little better than you were yesterday. Progress, not perfection, is what truly counts.
I would also tell my 10th grade self to take care of mental and physical health. Sleep, movement, and breaks are not laziness—they are necessities. Burnout doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’ve been trying too hard without giving yourself space to breathe. Learning how to balance ambition with self-care is a skill that will protect you for life.
Most importantly, I would say: be curious and brave. Try new subjects, join clubs, volunteer, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is not a sign that you’re not capable—it’s proof that you’re learning. Every mistake teaches you something valuable, even if it doesn’t feel that way at the moment.
High school goes by faster than you expect. Work hard, yes—but also enjoy the journey. Be kind to yourself. Trust that even if the path feels unclear now, you are slowly building the skills, confidence, and resilience you’ll need for whatever comes next.
You’re doing better than you think—and your future self will be proud of you.
I would remind myself to focus more on building strong habits rather than chasing short-term results. Learning how to manage time, stay consistent, ask for help when needed, and recover from setbacks matters far more than one test score or one bad semester. These habits will carry you through high school, college, and life far beyond graduation.
Another thing I wish I understood earlier is that comparison is a trap. Everyone grows at a different pace. Some people discover their passion early, others much later—and both paths are valid. Instead of measuring yourself against others, focus on becoming a little better than you were yesterday. Progress, not perfection, is what truly counts.
I would also tell my 10th grade self to take care of mental and physical health. Sleep, movement, and breaks are not laziness—they are necessities. Burnout doesn’t mean you’re weak; it means you’ve been trying too hard without giving yourself space to breathe. Learning how to balance ambition with self-care is a skill that will protect you for life.
Most importantly, I would say: be curious and brave. Try new subjects, join clubs, volunteer, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is not a sign that you’re not capable—it’s proof that you’re learning. Every mistake teaches you something valuable, even if it doesn’t feel that way at the moment.
High school goes by faster than you expect. Work hard, yes—but also enjoy the journey. Be kind to yourself. Trust that even if the path feels unclear now, you are slowly building the skills, confidence, and resilience you’ll need for whatever comes next.
You’re doing better than you think—and your future self will be proud of you.
This is one of the most beautiful responses I have gotten to this question! It feels so genuine, and as if it truly come from the heart and I truly adored reading every single word. This meant a lot to me.
Farida
Beth Kirshenberg
Partner Sales Operations
6
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Beth’s Answer
Hi Farida,
What a wonderful question! High school is such an exciting time. Remember to trust yourself and believe in your abilities. Everything changes, and that's a good thing. Stay open to new possibilities and opportunities. Keep exploring different areas and topics as you grow.
As you get ready to graduate and start your next adventure, keep seeking out what inspires and excites you.
I wish you all the best in everything you do.
What a wonderful question! High school is such an exciting time. Remember to trust yourself and believe in your abilities. Everything changes, and that's a good thing. Stay open to new possibilities and opportunities. Keep exploring different areas and topics as you grow.
As you get ready to graduate and start your next adventure, keep seeking out what inspires and excites you.
I wish you all the best in everything you do.
Thank you so much for answering my question! Your advice seems thoughtful, and your words will 100% continue to echo through my brain as I move forward with my life, especially as a teenager.
Farida
You are most welcome. All the best.
Beth Kirshenberg
Nicole Muhammad
Group Facilitator, Educator, Speaker, Job Coach, and Teen Mentor.
10
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Nicole’s Answer
Greetings Farida!!
Thank you for your question, what I would tell my 10th grsde self. That I'm good enough, and to take more risks in life. I allowed fear and low self-esteem to stop me from trying new things. I would also start a savings account or invest in a money market account. So when I went to college, I wouldn't get caught up with credit cards or student loans.
Thank you for your question.
Thank you for your question, what I would tell my 10th grsde self. That I'm good enough, and to take more risks in life. I allowed fear and low self-esteem to stop me from trying new things. I would also start a savings account or invest in a money market account. So when I went to college, I wouldn't get caught up with credit cards or student loans.
Thank you for your question.
Thank you so much for your response! This is actually really great advice, and has allowed me to deeply reflect about my own finances. I've thought about what I might do financially during college, but this motivated me to begin planning as soon as is humanly possible.
Farida
You are so welcome!! And thank you for the compliment!!
Nicole Muhammad
Rakesh Joseph K V
Assistant Professor
2
Answers
Kushalnagar, Karnataka, India
Updated
Rakesh’s Answer
If I could talk to my 10th-grade self, I’d say:
“Don’t worry about having everything figured out. Focus on building good habits, trying new things that excite you, and asking for help when you need it. Growing is way more important than being perfect.”
High school, especially the last couple of years, can feel super stressful. But here’s the thing:
Keep balance in mind: Grades matter, but so does your mental health. Take care of yourself.
Follow your interests: Join clubs, try new activities, and do things that make you excited to learn.
Connect with people: Teachers, mentors, and friends can help you through tough times—don’t be afraid to reach out.
Take it step by step: Small, steady progress now will pay off later.
Your 10th-grade years are just the start of something amazing—trust yourself and enjoy the ride! ✨
“Don’t worry about having everything figured out. Focus on building good habits, trying new things that excite you, and asking for help when you need it. Growing is way more important than being perfect.”
High school, especially the last couple of years, can feel super stressful. But here’s the thing:
Keep balance in mind: Grades matter, but so does your mental health. Take care of yourself.
Follow your interests: Join clubs, try new activities, and do things that make you excited to learn.
Connect with people: Teachers, mentors, and friends can help you through tough times—don’t be afraid to reach out.
Take it step by step: Small, steady progress now will pay off later.
Your 10th-grade years are just the start of something amazing—trust yourself and enjoy the ride! ✨
Thank you very, very much for your response! I've found that starting 10th grade has been of great stress to me, as time seems to constantly be ticking faster than desired. However, your response has soothed me and shone light upon my current experience. You have given me simple, fun tasks to complete and I really appreciate your words of encouragement and advice.
Farida
Connie Chang
Product Manager
1
Answer
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Connie’s Answer
Hi Farida, you’ve asked a fantastic question. The 10th grade is a wonderful time in high school because there are so many things to explore. I encourage you to visit university open houses to learn about different faculties and discover what interests you. This way, you can plan your 11th and 12th-grade courses to keep your future options open. Having many opportunities will let you choose what matches your interests and skills, leading to a fulfilling life. Wishing you all the best!
attend the open house in universities
Connie recommends the following next steps:
Thank you very much for answering my question! I've been feeling awfully stressed about not doing enough, but the way you worded what 10th grade entails really assisted me view it a bit differently for a moment. I will definitely begin going to open houses to truly explore my options.
Farida
Hector Morales Rivera M.A.
IT
4
Answers
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Updated
Hector’s Answer
I'm glad you asked. Here's some advice I often share with my teenage daughter:
First, enjoy your time in high school. It's a unique experience, and you'll make memories that last. I still laugh about moments from my high school days and keep in touch with friends I met back then.
Try exploring new hobbies and interests in your free time. Once you're an adult, you'll miss having so much free time.
Look into different careers and see where job opportunities are growing. Talk to school counselors to find careers that match your interests.
Start learning about managing money now. I learned about financial literacy later in life, and I wish I had known its importance earlier. It can make life much easier.
First, enjoy your time in high school. It's a unique experience, and you'll make memories that last. I still laugh about moments from my high school days and keep in touch with friends I met back then.
Try exploring new hobbies and interests in your free time. Once you're an adult, you'll miss having so much free time.
Look into different careers and see where job opportunities are growing. Talk to school counselors to find careers that match your interests.
Start learning about managing money now. I learned about financial literacy later in life, and I wish I had known its importance earlier. It can make life much easier.
Lisa Stassi
Executive COncierge
1
Answer
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Lisa’s Answer
If I could tell my 10th-grade self one thing, it would be to chase after what lights you up inside and truly believe in your own powers. Be bold and dive into new adventures, learn new skills, try out those after-school activities that make your heart race, even if they scare you a little. Trust yourself and take that leap, because saying YES to YOU is the best gift you can give. Believe me, your future self will be cheering you on and thanking you every step of the way! Wishing you all the best!
Shawna Rocha
Business Ops
2
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Shawna’s Answer
I wish someone told me that while H.S. can be hard, it's such an important part of you becoming you. It's a building block to you becoming the amazing person that you are. Make friends with people who have the same values as you, stay connected and you never know, they may be a friend for life. Oh, and be nice and appreciate your parents. :)
Kandace Turner
Sales Optimization
6
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Kandace’s Answer
If I could go back, I would say...have more confidence in yourself — even when you’re unsure. You don’t need to have everything figured out yet, and not knowing is normal. Trust that you’re capable of learning as you go.
Enjoy the hobbies and interests you genuinely like, even if they aren’t “cool” or popular. The things you love now often turn into strengths later, and you don’t need anyone else’s approval to enjoy them. Care less about what other people think — most of them are just as unsure as you are.
Work on your communication skills early. Being able to speak clearly, listen well, and share your ideas confidently will help you in every career and relationship. If public speaking or talking in front of others scares you, that’s actually a good reason to take a communication class — growth usually shows up right where the fear is.
Learn the basics of money as soon as you can. Understand how saving, budgeting, and investing work. Even small steps add up over time. Investing in yourself — your skills, your knowledge, and your confidence — is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.
Most importantly, be patient with yourself. You’re doing better than you think.
Enjoy the hobbies and interests you genuinely like, even if they aren’t “cool” or popular. The things you love now often turn into strengths later, and you don’t need anyone else’s approval to enjoy them. Care less about what other people think — most of them are just as unsure as you are.
Work on your communication skills early. Being able to speak clearly, listen well, and share your ideas confidently will help you in every career and relationship. If public speaking or talking in front of others scares you, that’s actually a good reason to take a communication class — growth usually shows up right where the fear is.
Learn the basics of money as soon as you can. Understand how saving, budgeting, and investing work. Even small steps add up over time. Investing in yourself — your skills, your knowledge, and your confidence — is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make.
Most importantly, be patient with yourself. You’re doing better than you think.
Kristin Morrison
Talent Strategy Manager
5
Answers
Bentonville, Arkansas
Updated
Kristin’s Answer
You don't need to figure out your whole life right now. Just take things one step at a time. Set your goals, make plans, and work towards them. If you face challenges, remember they're just chances to learn and grow.
Kerry Stakem, CPC, ACC
Northeast People Leader at PwC
9
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Kerry’s Answer
Enjoy life and don't be afraid to take risks. I used to worry about failing, but I now see that trying new things, even if they don't work out, is important. Failing quickly helps us learn more about ourselves and life.
Caroline Betts, SHRM-CP
Human Resources Business Partner
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Caroline’s Answer
This is a great question! I would tell myself to be open to trying new things and exploring different interests. It could be joining a club, taking an elective course on a topic you don't have much experience in, or even trying a new sport or hobby. At the same time, continue to invest time and energy into the things you already love and are passionate about- these can connect you to future opportunities you may not expect! Also be open to expanding your circle- learn about and build relationships with new friends, classmates, teammates, teachers and mentors. Through these experiences and connections, you’ll learn more about yourself and have people you can turn to for advice and guidance when you need it.
Kevin Meyer
Human Resources Manager
2
Answers
Hoboken, New Jersey
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Hi Farida! I hope that you are enjoying your 10th grade year! My best advice would be to keep yourself open to new opportunities and new experiences. While you may have things that you are interested in, and you might find it comfortable to focus on those, be open to saying "yes" and challenging yourself to go outside of your comfort zone. Try signing up for a new class, eat lunch with a new group of classmates, attend office hours with a teacher that you have never met before, or ask the adults around you (parents, friends' parents, guidance counselor, a colleague at your part-time job, etc.) questions about their life experiences- the worst mistake they ever made, a choice they made that was life changing, or what they wish they could be doing in that moment in time if they had no limitations. Be the best version of yourself and do the things that make you feel proud of yourself. While others' opinions do matter at times, the opinion that you have of yourself and the integrity that you continue to develop are the things that will take you the furthest in your lifetime! Wishing you all the success possible!
Julie M. Félix, MSc, PHR
Global Director, HR
2
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Julie M.’s Answer
Hi Farida - great question! I would say it's ok not to have it all figured out and also carve out time for reflection. What do you like? And if it were up to you, what would you want to do more of/less of? What new skill(s) (focusing on 1-2 at a time) would you like to focus on or add to your tool bank? I see someone else recommended time management which I agree with, I think that's super important to help create balance as life becomes more complicated. Likes and dislikes change over time and professional tracks vary for a lot of people who may have started off in one career and then decide to change so that reflection piece I think is super important as well...Lastly, identify your "circle of advisors" throughout life - teachers, mentors, friends, family etc whose opinions and careers you admire and as you move forward, check in with them to collect their thoughts and input on any decisions/direction you might be struggling with. Wishing you all the best!
Tiffany Ceccarelli
Deployment
2
Answers
Spring Hill, Florida
Updated
Tiffany’s Answer
This is a great question - I would have told myself that it was ok to ask for help/guidance. The real world is wildly different than High School and you need someone to listen to your goals/ambitions and then help you set the path for success. And if that path needs to adjust, to save you time/heartache/money/etc. you need someone more experienced than you to guide you. Find a good mentor that listens to your wants and concerns, lean on them for advice, and action their recommendations (if you think it will get you to where you want to be). Wishing you all the best!
Gloria Rosanio
writer
3
Answers
Medford, New Jersey
Updated
Gloria’s Answer
I wish someone had told me that I was still young and may change my mind a million times, and that's okay!