For me, high school is like getting a story through the cycle. I perfect the writing for my story, several editors dissect the work, and soon the piece is incomparable to the original. Each time a piece goes through the section, copy, media, EIC, and advisor, I learn strategies to enhance my writing. My freshman year self was the exact opposite of the person I am today, but I am so glad I went through the highs and lows. From the stress of getting a story by deadline, to the satisfaction of seeing it published.
My top priority during freshman year was to fit in. After the pandemic, I hesitated to make new social connections, although I only knew two people from my old school. I hesitantly relearned how to introduce myself, find people, and step out of my comfort zone.
While I was a sophomore, sports became a commitment for me. Homework piled up, and my time became increasingly limited. With more responsibilities, it meant more time management and things to keep track of.
My junior year, I became passionate about electives: Print Shop, Leadership, and Speech and Debate. I had several graphic design fails, planning miscommunications in leadership, and debate rounds that we got smothered in. On the contrary, I found my passion for graphic design, a successful event in leadership, and capabilities to publicly speak in speech and debate. These elective classes helped me pursue the newspaper because they taught me valuable teamwork skills.
Senior year has flown by, and staying present throughout this year has been the most challenging part. It’s easy to think about the future, like summer and college, instead of taking in what I already have. The newspaper has been an outlet for me. It has allowed me to stay present while reporting on current school-related topics. It reminds me of a team sport; every person plays a vital role in the paper’s outcome.
All four years of high school have taught me a different lesson. I am so grateful for these years because they allowed me to become who I am now. I will never take this experience for granted.
