As cringey and overused as it is, I truly mean it when I say that I have tried to start writing this about 15 times and deleted everything. I have so much to say, yet nothing at all, because how could I possibly sum up four years of my life in one page?

If you know me you know how I feel about high school; ready to leave. Yet, as I write this and think back to how long I have lived in the same house, with the same friends, in the same small town, I can’t help but get emotional to leave this place behind.

I can’t reflect on my years in Westborough without mentioning sports. Soccer in the fall, indoor track in the winter, and lacrosse in the spring. This is where I gained some of the most valuable friendships, and made core memories. No matter how terrible my days were, I always had my team to go to after. I don’t know where I would be without these three sports, and the friends I have gained along the way. You guys know who you are; thank you for being my best friends, I am going to miss each and every one of you.

As for Journalism, another core element of my four years at WHS. I never knew one class could have such an impact on my life. I reluctantly signed up for Journalism 1 as a freshman because my sister told me to. I will not lie, I didn’t like writing and didn’t want to continue the following year. After some convincing, I signed up for the next class, J2, which ended up being a decision I thank freshman me for often. I owe it to Journalism for helping me find confidence in myself. Mrs. Stoker, thank you for EVERYTHING. You were always the one teacher who was there to support me with anything. No matter if it was about an article, college apps, or just life itself, you always had my back and pushed me out of my comfort zone.The day you told me you were leaving I still remember holding back tears because of how sad I was to not spend my final year at WHS with you as my teacher. You truly are one of the kindest people I know, and have helped me get to where I am today. I think Journalism will be one of the hardest things to leave behind at WHS; all the friends I have made, skills I have learned, and the time I spent at Westborough TV. 

I can confidently say that no, high school was not the best four years of my life, but they were four very important years that I believe have changed me for the better. I’ve dealt with friend drama, burnout, breakdowns, everything. I also have made the best friends, found what I love to do, and have become an actual adult. To say I was a whole different person four years ago is an understatement. I was extremely quiet, anxious, and had no ambitions besides being the “perfect student”. Something I never spoke much about, but struggled with greatly from middle school through the beginning of high school, was anxiety. I spent so much time worrying about the “what ifs”, that I couldn’t even enjoy my favorite things like sports, being out with my friends, school, etc. It was something that took over many years of school and my social life growing up. If younger me could see how far I have come, she would be so proud. Although it was a pain to deal with, I learned the importance of appreciating the small things that I once took for granted, like going to school, practice, trips with friends, etc. If anyone else is dealing with something similar to what I dealt with, know you are not alone, and I promise it will get better with time. 

As for another thank you, there is one person who hasn’t left my side since 7th grade.  Sophie, thank you for being my best friend. You are the only person who has truly been there for me and who I can trust completely. Thank you for showing me what a true friend is, and for helping me become the person I am today. I am so sad to soon live over 2 hours away from you, but I know you will do amazing things. 

To my mom; you are my biggest role model. You have given me everything, and are one of the hardest working people I know. No matter what, you’ve always supported me and been my comfort person for the past 18 years. Thank you for everything, I am dreading the day I have to say goodbye to you for months at a time.

Dad, thanks for being the person who encourages me to do what I love, and for supporting me in everything I do. You too are one of the most hardworking people I know, and have done so much for me. Even though you wrongly think you are the funniest person in the family, I will miss hearing your weird jokes and phrases. Thank you for everything.

Kiley, Nora, and Jack, I will miss you guys so much next year.

Thank you to the teachers who supported me, especially Ms. Conrad, who truly was the best possible addition to The Lobby O. 

As my last day approaches, I grow more and more to appreciate the small aspects of my life that I soon won’t have; whether it is parking lot rants after practice, getting coffee with my sister before school, or the lunch spot I sit at everyday. As much as I will miss this place, I am hopeful for what the future holds and excited for the new memories I will make. 

For the last time ever, this is Delaney Vallee, signing off from the Lobby Observer.