As the end of the school year approaches, so does the warm weather, but just like summer, it feels like both are taking forever to arrive. As a freshman, this year has been a memorable one, not just for us, but for the seniors preparing to head off to college, the juniors realizing they’re next in line, and the sophomores stepping into upperclassmen status.

Looking back, I feel nostalgic. Coming into high school, I felt ready for anything but mostly just wanted the year to fly by so summer could begin. Now that the end is actually here, I find myself reminiscing about the beginning, when we were all fresh out of middle school, unsure of what to expect or how things would turn out.

I still remember the feeling of my first football game, going to homecoming, meeting new people, adjusting to new teachers and classes, trying out for the volleyball team, and playing my first softball game. These experiences are ones I’m so grateful to have had.

Everyone I’ve met this year has contributed in some small way to my growth and character development. Meeting new people can show you new opinions and perspectives beyond what you’re used to . Things have definitely changed since the start of the year, not just in school but in life. Some moments weren’t easy, but if I’m happy now, then it was all worth it.

This year was fun and chaotic. It didn’t go exactly how I imagined, and while I loved my freshman year, I still feel like nothing can top 8th grade. But now, we’re moving on to sophomore year. Things will change even more, we’ll start learning how to drive, have new teachers, and meet even more new people.

To all the seniors: as you head off into the world, remember that graduation and prom are unforgettable milestones. Enjoy them to the fullest, you will be missed.