Earlier last week, caps and gowns were delivered to the seniors.

I have to admit, holding that dark green gown and matching hat with a golden tassel hanging from it definitely is the biggest reality check that I have gotten in a while.

Sure, we ordered our cap and gown and graduation announcements weeks ago, but actually holding in my hands the outfit that I have worked tirelessly towards for the past twelve years was surreal.

In less than three months I will be a high school graduate. Hopefully, these last few months will be a breeze, and so far they have been.

I would like to believe that this is because I have finally taken to heart all of the study habits that I have been hearing about for the past four years.

It has finally clicked in my brain that procrastination is bad.

The administration is busy using these last few months as their final attempt to mold us into the exceptional people that they feel like we should be before we walk across the stage at graduation.

The seniors have had assemblies on the dangers of drugs and alcohol, financial responsibility and have all filled out the paperwork that registers us to vote.

It’s like they are making their final touch ups to my hair and make up before they thrust me out on the stage of a play called “Life.”

This is one of the first times that I have felt exhilarated and terrified at the same time.

This summer is going to be the best summer of my entire life.

I will be a high school graduate, 18 years old and pretty much carefree.

Those two and a half months will be my last hurrah before I become an adult.

In the fall, responsibilities, homework and bills will start all over again. But I know that I will be more than capable of handling college, because whether I want to admit it or not, Pelham High School has prepared me for the rest of my life.