What happens to high school friendships after graduation?

Hi all, as a senior who's starting to think about what life will be like after high school, I'm curious. I heard a lot of high school friendships evaporate after graduation, and it’s kind of stressing me out. Do any recent grads (or older folks) have experiences with this they can share? Any advice on how to handle this?

Transitioning after high school often means major changes, and yes, that can include friendships. But remember, that doesn't mean it's an end, but rather, an evolution of your relationships.

Many high school friendships are rooted in convenience since you see each other in class, at lunch, or at club meetings. College and other post-high school paths often mean meeting new people with shared interests and experiences. However, with technology nowadays, keeping in touch with high school friends has never been easier if you both put in effort.

I have personally witnessed friendships that have strengthened, weakened, and remained the same post-high school. Every relationship is unique. Some friends might stay close, regularly chatting and visiting each other, even if they're in different time zones or countries. Others might drift apart due to new experiences or changing priorities, which is also completely normal.

In terms of advice, make an effort to keep those connections you value. This could be a regular video call, a shared playlist, or texts about your day. It won’t be the same as seeing each other every day at school, but it’s a reasonable counterbalance to growing distance. Beyond that, stay open to new friendships and experiences. It’s part of life to grow and evolve, and that includes your social circle.