As I’m sitting here thinking about what to write for my final column for The Red Ledger, all I can think about is my challenges up to this point. It’s crazy to think how just yesterday, I was this awkward little freshman who was new at school, who didn’t know a soul. Now I’m a senior, and ready to embark on new adventures. High School has been a tapestry of moments – the triumphs in the classrooms and the random friendships I’ve come across. I’ve learned, I’ve grown, and I’ve become who I am today because of these experiences. Going through High School was not easy. I moved here in the middle of my freshman year from Jacksonville, Florida, and never really made many friends. Although, I do have my few that I’ve had since I moved, and to say the least I couldn’t have done any of this without their wisdom and support.
During my time at Lovejoy, I hit a lot of road blocks. If I had one piece of advice to anyone who is reading this, show up to school! Whatever is keeping you from performing at school push it to the side and focus on that annoying English assignment. If one bad thing happens it’s not the end of your world, life goes on and you won’t feel the same way in 4 years. You won’t know the same people, and you won’t know what life changing events will happen. But, the best thing to do is keep pushing yourself and work hard to achieve your goals.
As the final bell of our senior year echoes in the hallways, it’s impossible not to feel a mix of nostalgia and excitement. I’ve spent years within these walls, I’ve shared a lot of laughs with tons of people I probably won’t see again in my life, I’ve built connections with teachers who no longer teach at Lovejoy, and most importantly, I’ve shared connections with people who I love and cherish that I no longer speak to anymore.
But beyond the classes and the tests, what truly defines our time here are the connections I’ve forged. The friendships that have become my chosen family, the teachers who’ve ignited my passions, and the moments that have shaped who I am. I’d like to thank Coach Parkman, for encouraging me and helping me find my passion for writing. If it wasn’t for him, I wouldn’t be sitting here writing this right now. As I step out into what we call “the real world,” let’s carry these bonds with us, supporting each other as we navigate the uncharted territories ahead.
I am beyond grateful to say that I am graduating with the class of 2025, as I almost didn’t make it here. I strive to be the best that I possibly can and live up to my own expectations. As this chapter in my life ends. I’d like to open a whole new book and start new chapters because my life is just that interesting. I am finally starting a new story.
