Wow…high school did fly by.
Waking up at 7:50 am, ten minutes before my Computer Apps Zoom class with the ever so organized all-star, Ms. Niino. Listening to Mr. Castle reminisce about his super recent days at Berkeley, and being the only one to ever respond to him during class discussions about some crazy country dude killing mice. Then suddenly finding myself having to wake at 6:30 am for the ever so-appreciated delayed start for in person classes. Oh what times!
Now I am starting to see the last events: the Top 25 dinner, taking grad pics, the last rallies, and the ever-awaited stage walk. It may be cliché to hear, but what we’ve always heard since the beginning is very true.
My time at Selma High was nothing like the movies or shows we all grew up watching, neither were they the “best years of my life.” As I look back, I see a lot of studying for AP Euro and Calculus. But I am not ignorant to the fact that throughout high school I’ve established forever relationships. I know that my high school years aren’t something to reflect upon, rather these years are a part of my journey in life that have shaped me to become the woman I am today and to become in the future.
As senior year continues to come to an end, I’ve learned so much about embracing things that come your way, even if not desired. Having only three real years of high school, I am disheartened I wasn’t able to truly experience my freshman year. That isn’t, however, to say I didn’t fully enjoy my years at Selma High. There were times of stress, and disappointment, where I wondered why couldn’t I just be in bed. But with those came the happier moments where I genuinely can say I love to learn. I’m not saying I enjoyed learning derivatives and integrals, or necessarily reading Shakespeare’s ever-so-longed works. I am glad I was able to connect with the wonders of friendship and the unique experiences of humanity, and I’m hopeful that there is more to come. Every person, every relationship, every interaction, and every conversation I’ve had in high school made me who I am. For better or worse, only time can tell.
I want to say thank you to all of my teachers for pouring your hard work and dedication into my life over the last four years. I’ll forever remember the times my friends and I were called “you people,” by a certain someone (iykyk), and being able to confide within Ms. Niino’s comfort and knowledge regarding anything. I appreciate you.
Most importantly, thank you Mr. Castle for the chance to voice my opinion. There truly is no other feeling like being able to successfully capture your thoughts and put them into words to effectively communicate with those around you. You have inspired me and countless students to dream big and never limit yourself. This idea is set with the cloud wallpaper surrounding us. Your Top 10 List will forever haunt your students as you somehow always connect it to everything we discuss.
My advice to you? Be able to find a balance between academics and school activities. It will be hard, but find time for yourself. Be engaged and have fun while it lasts.
As much as I am comfortable where I am right now in life (I have severe senioritis), I desire change and betterment for myself in my future. I want to push myself out of my boundaries, find new friends, and opportunities, and make new memories.
Through this journey, I’m grateful I am able to say I gave it my all as a Selma Bear.
