I always wonder how people look at me when I walk through the halls. Am I an inspiration to underclassmen? Could I be a traitor? Possibly both? If only I cared enough to ask for their opinions.

Last spring, I decided to go through the process of early graduation. It was probably one of the biggest risks I have ever taken, but look at me now; I am perfectly fine.

(Am I really though? Do I want to rip my hair out? Yeah, sure, I’m fine.)

I spent my WHOLE summer at Watkins Mill High School. Having to be here at 8 o’clock in the morning was not the move. I just want everyone to know that was the most difficult part of this process.

Walking in the first day of school, I expected everyone to know what I had done, but boy, was I wrong.

“Genesis, this is IB English 12. Aren’t you a junior? What are you doing here?” First of all, I did the same summer reading that you did. Don’t question why I’m here with you.

“This is the senior class picture, you’re a junior.” OKAY, I GET IT. I STARTED HIGH SCHOOL A YEAR AFTER YOU, BUT I AM IN YOUR GRADE NOW!

I get shamed by my original class too.

“How does it feel knowing you’re not going to Italy next year since you want to be a traitor?” Um… I am lowkey hurt about that, but when I am living lavishly and rich, I’ll own a home in Italy.

Even though the upperclassmen make me cold-hearted, the little ones warm my heart. So many of underclassmen come up to me asking for tips and tricks.

Whenever I tell them about the high school courses I took in middle school, afterwards they ask me “How did you do it, Genesis?” I automatically rephrase their wows into “You’re the coolest, smartest girl I know.”

I get asked if I regretted my decision, my answer is no.

Yes, it’s stressful, but I have my reasons. Don’t ask me about them. Mind your business.