What's Next?

For many at this school, I've become known as the one who's always there with a camera. For a bit of background information, my involvement with journalism at JA actually began in seventh grade through Yearbook, and I didn't join the Jagwire until my junior year.

Photography, however, is more than just an extracurricular activity for me. There's a unique feeling that comes from capturing the genuine emotions of students during events. Those photographs hold a special significance and are hard to delete.

Over the years, documenting various events and activities around the school has resulted in a vast collection of images. While I do delete those that don't meet my standards, many remain. These images, ranging from something I was incredibly proud of four years ago, like the photos of individuals crowd-surfing at my freshman homecoming, to silly events such as Shrek the Musical, serve as a personal time capsule of my high school journey.

Within both the yearbook staff and the newspaper staff, I’ve had the opportunity to become a Photo Editor-in-Chief. Though the job differed slightly between organizations, it essentially involved assisting others with their photography. Like anything, it’s a learning curve. One that I didn’t master overnight. Because of this, one thing that I believe and always stress is that improvement comes from just taking pictures. It's taken a lot of practice, and I'd like to thank my parents, who provided me with a camera and took me to countless school events before I could drive.

On the subject of gratitude, this reflection wouldn't be complete without acknowledging the teachers at JA who have significantly influenced me.
Firstly, Ms. Davis: I've spent a substantial amount of time in her classroom, not only learning but also getting to know her personally. From her introduction to technology course in my freshman year to taking an AP class senior year, the time spent in her classroom has been truly meaningful. Throughout school hours and beyond, such as during my senior seminar job shadow with her, her dedication to her students and the school has been evident.

Secondly, Ms. Luceri: She has been a consistent presence throughout my time at JA, from yearbook in seventh grade and junior high soccer to my continued involvement in yearbook. It was through her class that I discovered my passion for photography and its potential.

Additionally, I would like to thank Mr. Ketchem and Ms. Thacker, who have both helped me have confidence in myself. From Mr. Ketchem helping me believe I could handle college history sophomore year, despite my initial desire to quit due to its difficulty, and Ms. Thacker, who has been influential in my math classes, despite my numerous breakdowns and self-doubts.

Many teachers and faculty members have had a positive influence on me during my time at JA, and there is not enough room or words for me to express my thanks to everyone who has impacted my high school years.

While my college plans don't include a journalism major, I know I'll continue to be involved behind the camera, documenting the life of my new school community. And to the juniors and underclassmen reading this: senior year is a lot, I’ll be honest. Friends come and go, you'll have relationships with people that don't work out. It's all learning for growth, and no, the world will not end when you fail a test for the first time. You'll feel overwhelmed, like there's never enough time. But trust me, you'll make it through - just make the best of it.