I had no idea what to expect going into my freshman year. Multiply that by four and you have my high school experience. I knew that Disney was not the best representation of high school, but I was hoping everyone would randomly burst into song while walking in the hallway. Still have my fingers crossed. In all honesty, high school wasn’t bad.There were many, many long nights spent studying and cramming in last minute work, but looking back now, I got to meet the most amazing, kind people and because of them I have had the most memorable experience.

For four years I was lucky enough to have taken journalism.What started off as me trying a new class, turned into a second home for me on campus.The classmates and director I have worked with were always so caring and encouraging. Personally, I thank Mrs. Scott for continually pushing me to do better and stick with journalism.Without her, high school would have been very different and who knows if I would have been on the Prowler staff. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to learn from such an optimistic and motivating teacher. Thank you Mrs. Scott for always believing in me and my ability to do better.

Everyday it was always such a relief to step into the classroom knowing I would be surrounded by a wonderful group of people. I will never forget all the laughter, all the stories, and all the crazy experiences we went through, especially this year. I’m glad I got to meet each and every one of you on staff. You have all worked so hard this year to create the Prowler and I couldn’t be prouder of how far we have come since the beginning of the school year.You’re all amazing and have definitely made this year in newspaper one I’ll never forget.

Journalism has impacted my life in several ways. I was definitely ten times more shy when I first started journalism than I am today. Journalism put me outside of my comfort zone. I was required to talk to people for interviews.Who would have thought that would be a requirement for the newspaper? Crazy right? Sometimes I’d have to walk into a class during the middle of a period and face that dreaded moment when half class turns to watch whoever is at the door. Needless to say social butterfly was most certainly not a term used to describe me. Don’t get me wrong, I’m still moderately quiet and reserved, but I’m not scared to speak out and be myself anymore.
As a freshman, I was so conscious of other people’s judgements and afraid to say the wrong thing at the wrong time.

In reality, I was more harsh on myself than anyone else was on me. In the end, everyone is flawed in one way or another and if someone truly cares about you, it will not bother them, so don’t sweat it. Enjoy being who you are.

Looking forward, I am excited to be a part of Texas A&M University’s class of 2023. And although journalism has impacted my life in many ways, I will be majoring in engineering. It’s always a little nerve racking to try something new and this time I’m expected to be independent, the pressure is on, but I know I am ready to face this new challenge. Leaving high school will be bitter- sweet. Crossing the stage at graduation means the end of my high school years, but the beginning of a new chapter in my life. I will miss everyone, but I’m excited to begin a new journey. I don’t know what to expect from college, shocker, but I do know the morals and friendships I’ve made in high school will always be there to help me on my journey.
Senior Quote: “It’s your life so make the most of it.”