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Maryjopodgurski

Pack smart for college

Q. I’m leaving for college in a few weeks. I’m excited about so many things, but one of the biggest is having only one roommate. See, I share a room with two siblings, and I have 3 more siblings younger than me. I can’t wait for less noise! I love them and I’m sure I’ll miss them, but ...

Should voting age be lowered?

Q. Hi! I am 14 and I wanna know if you think going to vote would be a good choice. Also, my social studies teacher had us debate whether 16-year-olds should have the right to vote. I was given the negative side. I think I did a good job arguing the point that 16-year-olds are too young and ...

No timeline to grief

Q: I'm writing even though I'm far from a teen, but I believe you will respond. You taught me in middle and high school. I remember you fondly. I learned about life from you. We discussed relationships, communication, sexuality and an awareness of my body, all while focusing on self-worth. I ...

Rising above a toxic home life

Q. I leave for college in 5 weeks and I’m not coming back. I know that sounds dramatic. Here’s the truth. My parents are toxic. I live with adults who are mean and unkind to each other and to me. My two older siblings left home for college and never returned; they only connect with me. I ...

Keeping in tune with today’s slang

Q. I feel so dumb. Everyone I know seems to know slang and I have no idea. How can I keep up with slang? – 14-year-old Mary Jo’s Response: What an interesting question! I’m not surprised you’re curious about slang – it seems to change rapidly. Slang is a type of social code. It ...

Learning to drive a rite of passage

Q. How can I find inspiration to go get my permit? I’ve been putting it off for over a year. What do I even do? Thank you. – 17-year-old Mary Jo’s Response: When we delay a decision, we may be unaware of why we hesitate. It sounds as if that may be the case with you. I’ve seen this ...