By Taylor Wouters ‘15 | Staff Writer

I have never done things I thought was worthy of an award. So when I received a letter in the mail saying I had won the Lakeshore Optimist Award, I felt very surprised.

At first I was confused because I had never heard of the club, but after doing research, I learned I had been nominated by teachers and administrators at South for all of my accomplishments. It was extremely honoring that I had been nominated for the award, especially since I was one of only four seniors from our school.

My parents and I got dressed up and headed down to the War Memorial for the awards ceremony. Upon my arrival, I realized I was in the company of many over-achieving students. I recognized the few that I went to school with, but that was it.

When my name was called, I proudly walked to the front to receive my award. As I stood, my accomplishments were listed off. Hearing it all at once shocked me. I didn’t realize all the things I had been a part of. From leading a youth group to being a part of the girls basketball team, I have used my four years of high school to the fullest.

During my years at South, I only participated in things that I wanted to. I hadn’t felt pressured to become a part of as many clubs as possible for a college application. I joined activities for the happiness it brought me.

I never thought that participating in all of the extra-curriculars would be noticed by anybody but my family and me. Besides, it was only something I was doing for myself, not to impress anybody else.

Knowing that I had been recognized by my school advisers, I felt honored. It was something I never expected to happen.

To the students who feel pressured to join clubs for a college application, think about what you want do. Join clubs that will make you happy, do things that you will enjoy. Everything else will work itself out.