Finding myself and the type of person I want to be has been one of my greatest challenges–like most– throughout my years as a teen. There have been moments where comparing myself to the person I wanted to be as a child to who I am now brought me disappointment in myself, but being able to say that I’m proud of myself and am relatively happy with who I’ve become instead is a big step. It certainly wasn’t something I was able to say four years ago, or maybe even four months ago. And as surprised as my sophomore year self would be–we made it!
On the first day of school of my junior year, I walked into room 115 and could sense a level of closeness amongst my classmates. They had clearly already developed a bond or some level of familiarity with one another. I had not (being new), which admittedly, given my so-called “resting b*tch face” I was maybe a little slower to forming those connections. However, (who I will be giving my first big thanks to) Sebastian quickly made me feel at-place. From her introduction to mannerisms, Sebastian and I became fast friends, and for that, I’m eternally grateful for Sebastian being Sebastian. If not for her, the newspaper wouldn’t mean what it does to me today.
I’m unsure when my appreciation for writing became so clear, but I know the more I interviewed, and the more articles I created, my care for being invested in my community had enlarged immensely. I found a comfort and home to journalism because suddenly my “stubborn” or “persistent” traits were a strength, rather than just annoying. It allowed me to find content in being opinionated. Because of that, I hope to continue to write, partake in a newspaper, and support the continued development of media altogether.
Later throughout the year, I became closer with others. From long production nights and jokes with Maxson and Val, to Paige and I finding any way to contribute the least amount possible, I’ve never found a class that collides so well with one-another. And it shows–in my opinion–on every edition. Regardless of my still very little knowledge of how to work InDesign, I do know that we have a creative and talented staff when it comes to composition and design.
Either way, the newspaper and this team has been a big contributor to understanding what I want for myself in the next few years, and what type of person I want to continue to be. Because of this, I owe my thanks to many.
Not only a thank you for being wonderful people, but supporting me in times they may have or may not have known I was struggling. To Mr. Heath, thank you for your help as an educator, a supporter, a place of encouragement, and finding ways to motivate and inspire not just myself, but so many others. You once told me in an interview your ultimate goal is to make the world just a little bit better– well I can confidently say you make this world a better place. As for any friend I’ve made at McDaniel, thank you for being an extra smile in the hall or helping minutes go by during what feels like never ending periods. Thank you to the entire newspaper class, this year, the New York trip, all have allowed me to get to know you a lot better, and it’s been unforgettable. I can’t wait to watch the program grow and see where you all end up.
And finally, SB, I appreciate your patience with me. I thank you for helping me become a better writer and learn the ways of ethics in journalism. And while I’m challenging (I know), it was fun to have you as a teacher and a coach. I truly appreciate the community you’ve developed, and I will miss it greatly (despite my tardiness saying otherwise).
The fact that I get to carry every relationship and conversation that’s helped form who I am today, is (for the most part) pretty great. So thank you McDaniel.
