By Adriana Gutierrez

It’s finally here. The day we’ve all been anticipating. After 13 years of earsplitting alarm clocks, uncomfortable desks, excessive exams, missing mechanical pencils, and frustrating group projects, it’s time for graduation.

High school teaches you a lot of things: academically, emotionally, socially and realistically. If you’re graduating this year, take some time to reflect on what you’ve learned. You’d be surprised at what lessons you’ll keep coming back to in your future endeavors.

As another graduating senior, here’s some reflections on my past four years of high school. Hopefully you can relate to some of these or be reminded of something else that’ll cause a smile or grimace cross your face.

Academics

During my past four years I have always put my academics first, always trying to be the best I can as a student. I would say that some classes were challenging, however, not impossible. I remember my 10^th grade biology class with Ms. Pomareda was so much fun to me. I really enjoyed the subject. I don’t regret taking any of the classes that I took since they were all interesting and taught me something to keep for the rest of my years.

Best Memories

For me, participating in Homecoming week will always be my favorite memory. Getting to see your friends on the homecoming court, watching the queen be announced, and cheering your team on to victory while surrounded by all ages of alumni is a rite of passage and a big one for your high school memory book. Also, expressing my pride for my Interact club and showing our spirit was an unforgettable experience.

Relationships

If high school has taught me something, it’s that our friends and the people we surround ourselves with have a tremendous influence on our actions. I’m proud to say the peer group I have been with throughout my high school experience has been one that has taught me to be a better person, encouraged me to learn from my mistakes, and to keep working hard throughout my years.

Unfortunately, I also know many who have fallen victim to the negative side. I have seen grades drop, relationships fall apart. It’s crazy how quickly you can be assimilated into a negative group and how your lifestyle will reflect that.

You Are Your Greatest Ally

It’s in your best interest to become your own best friend, because only then can you really improve and become a better person. If I would’ve realized this at the beginning of freshman year, my high school experience would have been completely different. I would’ve joined new clubs. I would’ve participated in the Christmas show. I would’ve done more service. I wouldn’t have been as intimidated by all the new challenges. I would’ve been more excited for the variety of opportunities. I would’ve been more willing to learn.

No matter how many friends you have, at the end of the day, there’s only one person who really knows the real you, and that’s you. Many people think that being alone and reserved is an abnormal behavior, but it’s actually one of the greatest assets you can achieve. If you can be alone and enjoy some quality time with yourself, if you can learn to be the friend of who you are and learn to love yourself for your faults, then you’re already ahead of most people in life.