It is an exciting time when high school ends, but it is also a sad one. You and your friends will be going to different schools in different cities—sometimes even different countries! Staying in touch can be hard, but here are some creative ways to keep in touch with your pals and include them in your new life:
Tip 1: Care Packages
Who gets actual mail nowadays? Other than your $20 bill and a birthday card from Grandma, most people don’t get snail mail anymore. This is a great way to keep in touch with your friends and an opportunity to get creative! I have a few friends who mail around a notebook and all add their stories from university to it. My friend in Ottawa and I send new teas that we have discovered back and forth. It isn’t as instant as other methods of communication, but it is very fun, personal, and worth the wait.
Tip 2: Video Messages
My friend and I like to record video messages and send them to each other when we are travelling abroad or apart for a long period of time—and we have fun with them! I made her a music video in Spain and she took me to the beach in Malibu. It is very fun to make and share these videos with your friends. Not to mention, it is a great way to document your trips and your adventures.
Tip 3: “Flat” Friends
I actually got this idea from making a package to send to my Grandma. The beautiful 87-year-old Grandma Powell has always wanted to travel to B.C., but because of her health, she has never gotten the chance. So, my brother and I made a “Flat Rhoda” and took her on adventures with us. We cut out a picture of her, laminated it, and took it hiking, on the ferry, to Whitecaps games, and other places all over BC! We took photos of us holding Flat Rhoda and sent them to her with a cute poem. She loved it!
Tip 4: Pick-up the Phone
So simple, but so effective. On a friend’s birthday, give them a call. It is so much more personal than a text or a Facebook message. Just hearing their voice will make you feel closer to them and it is such a kind way to let them know you are thinking of them.
Tip 5: Remember Important Dates
My friends and I always remember when each other’s exams are and make sure to send “Good Luck!” or “How did it go?!” texts on that day. It makes us feel more involved in each other’s lives and give us a confidence boost as well.
~Kinsey Powell
