After reading and editing all the senior farewell stories, it’s now time to write mine. Clarion, the class that’ll hold a special place in my heart for all the perspectives (and laughs) I garnered. This class was not just writing, but a plethora of everything. I’m grateful and glad of the fact that I joined this class after Mr. Castle’s multiple insistences to join during sophomore year. Now here I am writing one of my last stories for The Clarion. I’m not ready to write about this ending that will lead to a new beginning.
It was just yesterday that I walked into Clarion, timid and clueless, and now soon I’m about to walk out with a heart full of happiness and pride. It’s been wild to see myself grow this far, but there have been many other classes and teachers that I will always remember and be grateful for that have helped me grow this far.
Firstly, thank you to Mrs. Chang and Mrs. Manter for all of the contributions they have made to where I am today. Their guidance, support, and motivation have allowed me to create a stronger base for my future.
Thank you to Mr. Filkins for always sort of being there for all of the students, whether it was lending your classroom during lunch or getting to know me better each time.
Thank you to Ms. Carrillo and Mrs. Peña for your sheer positivity and support for me always.
Thank you to Mr. Mitchell and Mr. Machnik for trying your best and trying to make class a bit more interesting everyday.
Thank you to Mrs. Sultenfuss for the compliments, smiles, and trying to make P.E. fun.
Thank you to Mr. Castle for the teachings and lessons I have garnered since freshman year. Thank you for always believing in me.
Thank you to all of my friends, family, and all other teachers since the very beginning of pre- school that have contributed and impacted me to where I am today. I will take away the countless teachings and fun times with me in my journey ahead.
Talking about my journey ahead, although I was able to get accepted to my top colleges: UC Irvine and UCLA, I will be going to Reedley College and will be a part of their Pete P. Honors Program. I have come a long way to make this decision after years of schooling and upon completing two years at Reedley College, my goal is to transfer out.
One advice I can give to others is to not rush yourself, and give yourself the time to learn your surroundings and make the best decision for yourself academically and personally, since you will never stop learning and figuring out new things.
Till now though, I am not ready for my lasts. Not ready for the last time I will eat in Mr. Filkins’ class, last time Mr. Castle makes a joke that the class doesn’t laugh at, last time bugging Mrs. Manter for her advice and motivation, last time waking up late for late start, last time dreading doing the AP Bio notes, last time writing an essay, last time turning in an assignment, last time entering my ID number, last time closing my chromebook, last time hearing the school bell ring, and last time writing for The Clarion.
Now it’s time to celebrate and cherish my journey till now and gradually prepare for my new journey beginning. I will always look back at my high school years with a smile and never forget the good times.
