When I walked into high school four years ago, I thought it would be something it just never was. I thought it would be the “best years of my life.” In many ways it wasn’t. At all. High school brought challenges I never saw coming: changing friendships, stressful nights, and moments where I felt completely lost in trying and figuring out who I was becoming. But at the same time, it gave me some of the best memories I think I’ll carry forever. Yes, I’m ready for what’s next, but I know I’ll never forget the people, the lessons, and memories that shaped high school into the way it was. Not perfect, but meaningful. 

I grew up with anxiety taking over my life even though I never spoke much about it. I couldn’t do the simple things, like hanging out with friends, enjoying long car rides, or even leaving my house sometimes. I never was able to do it. My brain would constantly take over and think of the worst.  Even though I can confidently say that high school was not the “best four years of my life” and didn’t lower much of my anxiety, I can say it did change me and allow me to grow into the person I am today. I’ve gotten through my fears, broke through hardships, managed to push through my anxiety, and most importantly, found people who lessened my anxiety. You guys know who you are and I can’t thank you enough. 

When it comes to journalism, it definitely wasn’t a class I was really wanting to take until my sisters Kiley and Delaney told me I should, and I’m forever grateful that I listened to them. My first impression was that it was just a writing class, but with full honesty, it’s so much more than that. I’ve learned ways to improve my writing skills, edit videos and become a better interviewer and broadcaster. I want to thank Ms. Conrad for helping me through it all.

Journalism not only gave me opportunities I didn’t know a class could give me, but it also gave me my best friend. Sam, thank you for being my best friend and being there for me when no one else was. I’ll miss not only journalism with you but everything we do together. Thinking about our seven minute drive away from each other being 11 hours doesn’t sound real and I will miss you so much. I can’t thank you enough. I love you and am so proud of you and know you will do great things next year. 

To my mom, thank you for being there for me through everything. No matter how stressful life got or how many times I doubted myself, you were always my biggest support system and the person I can count on no matter what. I’ll miss you next year more than words can describe. I love you. 

Dad, thank you for always being proud of me, encouraging me, and wanting the best for me. You’re  someone I can call and know will always be there for me in any situation. Thank you for always putting a smile on my face. I love you and will miss you so much next year. 

To my siblings, Kiley, Delaney and Jack, thank you for always having my back and I will miss you all next year. I love you guys.

As I end this, I want to say that no matter how hard life feels in the moment, remember that tough times don’t last forever. High school, friendships, and loss can all feel heavy at times, but every challenge teaches you something to make you grow stronger. So keep pushing forward, even on days where it feels impossible because one day you will look back and see how far you’ve come. 

So for the last time, this has been Nora Vallee reporting for the Lobby Observer.