High school graduation can be a thrilling time for a graduate. With the prospect of both college and career on the horizon, high school graduates face many interesting and exciting challenges. Miles Betro, a successful graduate of Brown University, as well as a career professional in the financial services industry, shares some advice to those soon to become productive and successful adults.

Study Hard For Your Finals. Senior finals week often involves partying and celebration, says Miles Betro, though students approaching graduation should instead put their focus on studying hard and getting enough sleep to do well on their final exams. Good final grades, says Miles Betro, can help to boost your final high school GPA, and perhaps even nudge you closer to the possibility of a scholarship.

Formulate Some Sort of Basic After-Graduation Plan. Though it’s true that most high school graduates are either planning on college, or have some idea of what they want to do post graduation, says Miles Betro, it doesn’t hurt to underline the importance of a plan. Be sure to have a course of action in mind, something to give you a general direction and focus.

Focus on College Success. Many people see college as freedom, and as their first real chance to let loose. Be careful, says Miles Betro, not to fall into the college party trap. Rather, he says, plan on taking your education seriously, and try to take advantage of the amazing educational opportunities can offer. A university-level education, says Miles Betro, can open up doors you may have never thought possible, so it’s vital to take it as seriously as possible.

Prepare. If you do plan on going to college, says Miles Betro, prepare for a bit of a shock. College education, he says, is generally much more difficult than a high school education, and it’s important to at least have an idea of what you will encounter. Mitigate this initial surprise with a little research into the school you’ve chosen, and seek out past college graduates for a little insight.

Pick the Right Major. No pressure here, says Miles Betro, but selection of the right major is a major life choice, and should not be taken lightly. Be sure to pick something you’re truly interested in; a field you know you will enjoy pursuing, something with good career potential.