I had planned on graduating early, and for the most part, I wish I had. 

This year was not at all what I expected, and definitely not what I wanted it to be. There were many events that occurred that temporarily caused me mental anguish and made life in general very difficult, but that’s all that those feelings and difficulties were: temporary. 

After my mom moved to Minnesota and I moved in with my dad in Park Ridge, I was in a slump for a long time. I was upset about being apart from my family and frankly angry. I was irritated with the situation of having to drive an hour back and forth to get to school. I was constantly wishing I had graduated early because then I wouldn’t have had to deal with the hassle of getting to school and maintaining my life in Belvidere while living in Park Ridge. 

I had considered transferring schools many times. That would have alleviated much of my stress, and most likely have made my life much easier, but that wouldn’t have made me happy. Transferring schools wouldn’t have given me the same friends and connections that I have had at Belvidere. I wouldn’t feel the same welcoming and familiar environment as my favorite faculty, coaches, and teachers. Belvidere had become a part of me, and it wasn’t something I was willing to give up. 

Belvidere has shaped me into who I am today. My coaches have taught me to work hard towards my priorities and that sometimes sacrifices for the greater good of the team are necessary. My teachers, as well as coaches, have been a support system when I needed them to be, and have greatly helped me through this difficult year. My friendships at Belvidere are connections that I will always cherish, for they were the friendships that showed me how to be selfless. 

I am incredibly grateful for my time at Belvidere High School, and for everything that it has taught me. I will always be grateful for all the people that I have met and all that I have learned. I am looking forward to the future and attending Oregon State University, and I know that I am better prepared for the life ahead of me and I have Belvidere to thank for it.