Finding my Way
The last four years have changed me in ways I never expected. I came into high school from a different middle school not knowing many people and not really having a solid group. I was nervous about what these four years would be like, but
now as I’m getting ready to graduate, I can most definitely say they’ve meant a lot to me. I’ve not grown just as a student, but as a person.
One of the most critical parts of my high school experience has been through the soccer team. I’ve played all four years and it’s been full of highs and lows. My freshman year not only did I play JV but I got the opportunity to be the ball boy during the state final. Watching from the sidelines, I remember thinking how amazing it would be to actually be on that field playing in a state final one day. I knew that it would be tough but I did not yet understand the amount of work, dedication, and growth it would take to get there. Then came my junior year, which was probably the hardest season. We didn’t win a single game. That really tested me not just as a player, but as a teammate and a person. It was tough to stay motivated. After the season I was physically exhausted and emotionally beat. That didn’t stop me from continuing to pursue what I wanted. And in my senior year, I got to play in the state final. After 4 years of hard work, dedication, and a lot of growth I had finally made it to that moment. That full-circle moment meant a lot to me. It was concrete proof of the growth and work I had been through.
Another big part of my growth and pursuit of who I want to be has come
from the history program at JA. I’ve always liked history due to the many historical conversations I had with my grandfather, but it wasn’t until I walked through the door for my first day in Mr. Page’s World History class that I realized I wanted to pursue teaching in history. His class made everything feel important and interesting in a way that stuck with me.
Mr. Ketcham’s US History class continued that interest. It wasn’t just about learning the facts but it was about understanding the bigger picture and in a very interesting way. However my favorite class of his was the WW1-WW2 class. The
hands-on projects and the way he made that block of my day come alive made learning so fun. I still remember the trench building project. I spent a lot of time going way over the expectations and had a great time even though some aspects of the project didn’t go quite to plan.
Then I had Mr. Thimsen for Western Civilization. His teaching style and passion for the subject helped me really confirm that history was what I wanted to pursue. All these classes, and the teachers behind them, played a big role in helping me figure out my future.
Of course, high school wouldn’t have meant as much without the people I’ve met. I’ve made some amazing friends along the way. There were times I really needed support and my friends were there for me. Whether it was during hard times or just the simple, fun moments like playing senior assassin, grabbing food after a long day, seeing a movie, or having plans for prom and homecoming, those experiences have helped shape who I am.
As I look back at these last 4 years it is truly amazing to reminisce on everything that has happened. These four years weren’t by any means easy or a breeze, but the challenges and difficulties were important. I learned a lot, found a passion that
I’m excited to pursue, and met people who made a difference in my life.
