As I think back to the beginning of my high school days, covid is the first thing that comes to mind. Middle school was a rollercoaster ride of remote learning and limited social interactions.
Thinking about starting high school was both exciting and overwhelming. Returning back to school felt like stepping into a new world. Many students faced challenges adjusting to in person classes, rebuilding friendships and managing academic pressure. I was no exception. The rigor and new expectations of high school had a strong impact on me freshman year(especially my grades). I felt as though I was not living up to my full potential and used this to drive myself to succeed.
At the same time, there was renewed appreciation for the simple things. Lunch with friends, school events, and sports were all aspects of my life that I had missed. I joined the soccer and basketball teams and that gave me the sense of community that I had been missing. This sense of community was so strong that I continued my athletic journey in both sports through all four years of high school. The friendships I’ve made in high school and the bonds we share are some of the best memories I have. I am extremely grateful to the friends that I have for sharing the journey with me and helping me become the person I am today.
Now that I am about to graduate I realize that high school wasn’t just about grades, but rather about how to navigate life and become more confident in myself and my own path. To underclassmen reading this, just say YES. From joining new clubs to attending events I would have never thought of going to, these unknown experiences soon become some of your best memories in high school. I learned that growth comes from discomfort, and some of the most meaningful moments come from when you take a risk. Take the leap, even if you’re unsure where you’ll land.
As I am writing this testimonial for journalism class, I think it’s only right to express the impact this class has had on me. Throughout my life, I’ve always approached the world with a often very black and white mindset. Creativity and expression were areas I rarely stepped into, thinking they weren’t for me. Sophomore year, a bunch of my good friends were joining journalism class and encouraged me to do so as well. What began as a hesitant step outside my comfort zone quickly became a transformative experience, one that pushed me to grow, communicate and discover a new side of myself. Full Court Press was the highlight of journalism for me. Talking and bickering about basketball with some of my good friends was something I looked forward to each week. Being able to share my personality on camera while talking about a sport I love is something that I will always remember. Thank you to Ms. Conrad, Mrs Henderson, and Westborough TV for giving me this opportunity.
Lastly, I’d like to thank my parents. To my mom and dad, thank you for supporting me throughout high school. You pushed me to be better in every aspect of my life and that support is something I can’t thank you enough for. Now as I look forward to continuing my academic journey at Fairfield University I will always remember WHS and the lessons it has taught me.
