As I anticipate my last day of high school, I am left with mixed emotions. My life is only just beginning, but I am faced with a chapter of my life that is about to end. People I have grown up with every year are not going to be who greets me in August. Instead, I will be attending a new school with new people and new possibilities. The familiarity that is high school will be stuck in my past as I bound towards the unknown. Despite fear of failure, I am embracing change with open arms and an open mind. As much as I am ready for the future, the past still keeps a bittersweet grip on me.
Leaving home is going to be one of the hardest parts for me. I have two little sisters that I live with at home. They will continue to grow, and instead of me being there along every step, I won’t be. The house I grew up in will be the home I come back to, but it won’t be a permanent residence as normal. Instead, it will be a temporary home on breaks and visits that will have little changes. Little things like the pillows on the couch or the rug in the living room will change from the ones I remember. In the same way, my sisters will get taller, and their hair will get longer, and I will come back noticing all the little changes.
It’s funny how time works. It was just yesterday when I was watching my brother graduate high school. I remember my mom telling me, “You’re next, get ready.” I guess I never realized how soon that was until I am now counting down the days until I toss my cap in the air.
I have grown into high school the same way someone would grow into their older siblings’ clothes. I have learned to love my time here and the people I have met. Senior year is like no other in the sense that everyone knows time is almost over, so you develop friendships you didn’t think you would. I am sad to say goodbye, but so excited to see what everyone does with their future.
My advice for upcoming seniors is to appreciate the time in your past as you embark on your future. The lessons you learn in the past will stay with you throughout you hereafter, so be excited for the future, but don’t forget to appreciate the lessons learned.
To Mrs.Curran and the rest of my fellow newspaper staff, I want to say thank you. Thank you for being there with me along every step of the way as I found a creative outlet. Thank you for pushing me to venture into topics I wouldn’t have before. I will always remember my time in newspaper, and appreciate the things I have learned.
I want to also extend my gratitude to my parents who have been there for me through every stage of my life. I couldn’t have asked for a better example.
Furthermore, I want to thank my friends. You guys make my life better everyday, and I wish you guys luck in your next chapter.
Lastly, to my fellow class of 2026, congratulations and good luck.
“Your education is a dress rehearsal for a life that’s yours to lead.” — Nora Ephron
