My Advice To You High School Students

I get asked advice all the time, and I have a bit of advise that might seem a little strange for you "cool" or even "outcast" type kids at first. Read more after the break.

I got into team sports kind of late compared to most kids and really enjoyed the camaraderie more than anything else.  After my final football season, I opted to not play basketball and instead got into the UIL Speech and drama programs.  Its weird that somebody gets both the jock and somewhat nerd experience in the same year, but I did and my only regret is that I didn't do it sooner.

You have no idea how much BALLS it will give you to be able to confidently speak in front of people. I have seen people shaking like leaves when they have to address a crowd.  If you can speak to a group you are immediately a leader and respected and it will help you so much in all areas of your life, from arguing with a bill collector to asking your boss for a raise.

Give speech or even drama a try.  Who cares if you are horrible at it?  You'll get better and even if you are the absolute worst in the program, you are still going to be better than those who didn't take it at all.

Pick your best sport or two, but round out your education by giving the speech, drama, debate,  or any other program  that challenges you in a new way.  a chance.  People who speak well will always be respected and seen as leaders.