When people told me, “High school flies by fast,” I completely disregarded it, no way four years could go by that quickly. Now that senior year is coming to an end, I realize these sayings were completely true; high school does go by fast. In the blink of an eye, I saw myself and the people around me transform from naive teens to adults.
Entering freshman year, I made a goal for myself to get out of my comfort zone. I wanted to try new clubs, meet new people, and make lasting memories. Over the past few years, I have achieved some of my goals. I joined throwing, a sport I had never played, joined The Tide, participated in Model Congress, and became treasurer for the Banned Book club.
Even with all I achieved in high school, some things fell short. I found it hard to reach out and make new friends. Seeing the others around me slowly gravitate and form new friendships, it felt as if I had started on the wrong track. It’s not until now that I realize the high school experience is not the same for everyone.
The others around you do not define your high school experience. Some may find it easy to branch off, create new bonds, and try new things, but not everyone follows that same track. I heard many sayings at the end of 8th grade, with people explaining how “you’ll lose all your middle school friends in high school.” But that isn’t necessarily the case. When given the chance, continue to grow the bonds you have established, and you’ll see that they’ll stay strong no matter the time and distance.
Looking back, I remain proud of my high school experience. Freshman orientation, going out to lunch for the first time, seeing my first football game, going to my first homecoming, taking a school trip to New York, and eventually graduating, I remain grateful for my friends, teachers, and mentors who helped me along the way.
I especially remain grateful to the Richard Montgomery community and The Tide. Being in an open and accepting environment has grown my view of the world. Meeting so many kind and welcoming people has taught me lessons I’ll never forget. Although the next chapter of our lives is arriving, I will always be grateful for the memories made at RM.
