As I reflect on the last four years I’ve spent at Grosse Pointe South, I’m overwhelmed with emotions. I think about the amazing teachers who have helped me, the variety of clubs I’ve participated in, and the hard work I’ve put into my academics. However, what stands out most are the friendships and connections I’ve built with those around me.
One of the scariest moments for me as a freshman was walking into a classroom and not seeing a familiar face to sit by. I had spent the previous eight years of my life knowing all of my classmates, and on my first day at South, I was far from that reality. Thankfully, I’m not one to shy away from meeting and talking to new people. In fact, the classes that I started the year knowing no one in, became the years that I ultimately created the best friendships. Making an effort to talk to all of my peers allowed me to create some of the best memories that I will cherish the most when looking back on my high school experience.
To the girls in my junior year Power of Language class, and to the classmates who sat at my table during my freshman year tutorial: thank you for always making me smile and talking to me about anything and everything. To my fellow staffers on The Tower: I will distinctly remember hanging out in the back room, creating our publication, and having so much fun while doing so. Thank you to Edge for providing us a great environment to grow on our own. Lastly, to ‘PAR’: thank you for always making me laugh and turning each weekend into an adventure. I love you girls with all my heart.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned during my time in high school is the benefit of getting out of my comfort zone to reach out to new people. Some of the people that I’ve met will be my lifelong friends, and for that, I am forever grateful for the opportunity South gave me to meet them. As I continue my education at Michigan State University, I look forward to the new mentors and friends that will cross my path there as well. When walking into my lecture halls next fall, I am now confident that I will embrace all the new faces, new experiences, and new challenges.