There is this girl I was friends with in middle school, and we honestly got really close, but then we grew apart over the summer. I’m not sure how to talk to her, but every year I have a single class with her. I would like to become friends with her again before I graduate because she still seems like a really cool person. How should I befriend someone I used to be friends with? 

If you two had a great friendship before drifting, we’re sure she feels the same way! Try talking to her or texting her about a shared class. Joking about the class, reminiscing about your friendship, or even just a smile can go a long way. Be friendly and open, and she will naturally respond.

I’m a senior who’s already committed to college, and I have ZERO motivation to do schoolwork or even go to school. What should I do?

We totally understand this! It can be hard to motivate when it seems this chapter has already ended. But don’t forget that colleges will ask for your final grades, and uncharacteristically bad ones will definitely raise some red flags. It’s okay to ease up a little bit, but don’t let the school you worked hard for fall through because of the second semester. Keep checking in with your teachers and keep track of your assignments in a planner, app, or document. You’ve got this.

All of my friends want me to do a punishment for losing fantasy football, but I really don’t want to. They want me to record and post these corny TikToks, and I really feel uncomfortable and am nervous that colleges will see. They gave me another option, but I just don’t have the money for it. Help!

If posting these TikToks makes you genuinely uncomfortable, that is valid. If you do decide to compromise, make sure your account is private, your username isn’t your full government name, and the content is something you would be okay with existing long-term. You can also suggest your own alternative punishment that does not involve spending money or social media. As for colleges, while it is smart to be mindful of your digital footprint, a few silly videos won’t define you. Colleges understand that students have many diverse interests. We’re sorry you lost fantasy! 

 How can I go to sleep at a normal time while balancing homework and extracurriculars? 

We suggest that every time you get homework assigned, you set up a precise plan for when and how you will get it done efficiently. Say it’s Monday and you get a presentation assigned to be done by Friday; have yourself work on it every day, doing a small portion of it each day. It is also important to re-evaluate your commitments. If you are stretching yourself too thin, take a look at your most meaningful extracurriculars and keep those and take on smaller roles within the others. We know you’re going to be able to handle on all of your work!