BY COOPER HAYES

It takes 13 years or 2,340 days or 14,040 hours for a student to graduate from  high school. Erik Flynn recently finished his time and advanced into the world, but memories of high school remain fresh on his mind.

Mariemont City Schools advertise that they create the “leaders of tomorrow.” Flynn was undeniably a leader; during his time at Mariemont he was an editor for the Warpath as well as a captain in lacrosse and football.

Flynn had an event-filled 13 years within the district with the outcome of admission to Miami University.

In an attempt to help future students Flynn’s advice has been compiled by this writer into an Erik’s Declassified School Success Guide:

Flynn put a good deal of emphasis on school spirit: “Support your school, Mariemont is cool if you let it be,” said Flynn.

Flynn believes there is a difference between being present and having a presence. He says, “Don’t just show up to the games, yell and be creative.” Flynn looks toward  senior John Peck to turn around the Mariemont student section.

Mariemont has a rigorous curriculum that in the long run can be an asset, “challenge yourself, I’m just beginning here and if it’s not a hard transition, it’s at least strange,” suggested Flynn.

 “Being awkward and getting embarrassed is healthy, at least that’s what I tell myself.  It’s probably why I’m single,” admitted Flynn.

“Don’t pee into the wind,” Flynn said. Though it seems clear this is a challenge for some.

It is important not to get caught up with girls. “I basically wasted two years of high school (chasing a girl) instead of being a fun teenage boy,” Flynn mourned.

 Fitness is essential. “Actually lift,” Flynn said in regards to training.

 “Take a shower before answering important questions,” said Flynn concerning the importance of remaining level-headed.

 “Question authority.  Don’t necessarily challenge it, but question it so you at least know who the boss is,” Flynn admitted after being the boss of the lacrosse team and newspaper staff.

 “Learn when to twitpic and when to instagram; it’s a big deal.” Flynn stated on an issue he considered of the greatest importance to social success.