How to Impress at a High School Reunion

While there are many experiences in life that generate excitement, there are some that give anguish and dread all at the same time. The most common time we feel this is when it is time for our high school reunion. It’s true when that notification arises that it is time for the big return one might feel nervous, but with the following tips be sure to impress those old high school pals with the new and improved you.

Step Out: Get out of your comfort zone and mingle with others during the reunion and you are sure to be noticed. Perhaps you were shy in school, or the ‘cool crowd’ was out of your league, not anymore. Everyone is a new version of themselves at this point in life, you might find that you even like some of them more then you did before. Consider pretending you have never met these people before and get to know them as a new person. After all, you have changed too, haven’t you?

Significant others and Spouses: While you may have not gone to school with them, it is always polite to show respect and say hello. There is a fine line between being friendly and flirty however, always try and remember that. It’s always a good idea, if you did know them from before to keep the conversation current and not dredge up the old past and how you two may have been an item.

Perhaps you are now married or in a serious relationship yourself and want to bring your SO with you. Remember, they might not know the people there too, it’s important to keep them comfortable too. Don’t go around and leave them behind while you associate with your old pals and forget they exist. Nobody wants to feel like a third wheel, not even at a high school reunion.

Be Kind: Remember who you are today and what you want to show the world about yourself. You might be somebody who used to get teased a lot, or maybe the class clown or a bully. You are no longer that same person and it is time to show the entire graduated class that you are that person no more. Be kind and compliment each person you see, or simply tell them it is so nice to see them, even if you still hold resentment against them. It’s not a popularity contest anymore, so relax and let go. 

If you notice someone has changed in their appearance in a good or bad way, try to keep it civil and be classy about it. Keep your jaw up and don’t gossip about them to another person either. After all, you are out of high school.  

Be Honest: A lot of the times at high school reunions (even college reunions) people tend to fabricate who they are today and what they are up to. If you are unemployed or currently in-between jobs don’t be afraid to say so. Talk about the positive things in life such as your family, your church outings, anything in which you are proud of without sounding to boastful. 

Not everyone is the same. Some might be married with kids, some may be out of the closet finally, and some may even not remember you. That’s the joy about 10 year, 20 year and 50 year high school reunions, it is a time to get to be reacquainted and learn what has been going on in everyone’s lives.

It’s almost over: Even if you are completely anxious about the reunion, it will be over before you know it. These reunion events last anywhere from a few hours to a few days depending on the size of the event and whom organized it, so take a breath. 

While you might be a little worried about seeing everyone, remember once it is done, some of these folks you won’t see again until the next reunion. 

Remember, while you might be nervous, it can also be exciting seeing everyone again for the high school reunion. Just follow the above tips, and don’t be afraid to see those old friends and foes again. Simply be the best version of you and most importantly have fun.