As this year comes to a close, its due time I say goodbye. I’ve spent four years of my life in this school, growing as a person, making friends, breaking hearts and most importantly writing tons of stories for the newspaper.

Looking back on my freshman year, I never thought about leaving what’s become my home. I’m face to face with a lot of lasts right now as I prepare to head into a sea of firsts. This is my last paper, my last prom, my last yearbook.

Over the years, I have written numerous stories for the paper. From advocate editorials to the sexting feature story, I’ve faced all the challenges thrown at me. I’ve shared a laugh or 20 with Lemons, shouted with previous editors and most importantly made a family away from home. I’ve met some of the most amazing people I’ll ever meet. They’ve taught me to value my beliefs no matter what, laugh even in the worst of time, be crazy no matter what, take the lead even if I don’t want to, that it’s okay to not know what to do with myself and to be brave and speak for myself even if it hurts. That’s six life lessons for six wonderful ladies. They soldiered through this year, even with me as one of their editors and that in itself is a great feeling.

However, it’s not just the newspaper that has built my foundation for the real world. Several teachers have also given me the strength to say goodbye. Ms. Swilling reminded me to try and try and try even after you’ve given up. Mr. Hjort taught me that in tough times all you need to do is shout “Freakin’ Hey!” and stomp your foot. Coach Alexander proved that being different is great and that lectures can actually be fun. Lemons showed me how to be a strong, brave person and how to deal with the stress. She’s taught me how to grow up and face the real world. For that, I have no words other than thank you.

As I prepare to walk and leave high school forever, I can’t help but look back on all the memories I have made with my best friend, my family at school, all the media kids and some of the greatest teachers ever. It’s safe to say, I’m not ready to leave, nonetheless, it’s time to say goodbye.