Nearly four years of high school have passed by just like that. 

High school has given me countless memories and relationships that I will never forget. There have been so many highs and lows but if there’s anything that I’ve gained from all of these experiences, it’s growth.

This version of myself is someone I am proud to be, but is someone that wouldn’t exist without the numerous people in my life I’m lucky enough to have met. Without them, I have no idea where I’d be today and for that, I want to deliver a message to these people. With that being said, I’d like to start with my fellow members of the newspaper staff.

To the underclassmen of newspaper: I got to know some of you better than others (Gabriel and Landon) but what I do know is that so many of you have a bright future ahead. Some of you have already been to UIL and even placed at some of these meets. The future of FarHar is in good hands and I can’t wait to see what all of you are able to accomplish.

To Hale: I remember at the end of photojournalism last year, you asked me if I was a good writer and if I’d be interested in joining newspaper. That conversation is what got me to join and find what is now what I plan on pursuing in the future. You’ve been one of the greatest teachers I’ve ever had and if I hadn’t joined your class, I don’t know where I’d be right now. UIL was amazing and I am so glad that I was able to not only participate but place in one of the events. I wouldn’t have been able to do that without your trust and I thank you for believing in my abilities. I’ll have to come back and visit to hear you talk about moments in sports that were before my time.

To Pinkham: It’s only been a year, but my time in newspaper was great and a lot of that is owed to you. Whether it was a waitress confusing you as my parent during the summer workshop or seeing a banana man do tricks in San Antonio, there have been so many great memories. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to write about football this year, that helped me grow immensely as a writer. I even won a few awards this year and can call myself an all-state journalist. I’m lucky to have had such a great teacher to set me on the start of my journey in newspaper. I’ll be sure to come back and possibly see more of the chaos that happens in yearbook like I did countless times this year. 

To Noah: From day one, you’ve always made newspaper a fun class to be a part of. Everything from falling down the stairs with nachos, getting the title of photo boy to whatever chaotic videos you send me. There’s never a dull part of the day when you’re around and the days you’re gone, it just feels like there’s always something missing. I wish I could’ve been in newspaper before this year and gotten to know you better. Despite that, it’s been great to know the biggest Tottenham fan there is and I know that you’ll continue to grow and be an amazing photographer. 

To Taylor: I’m so glad that we were able to rekindle our friendship after so many years. Even after going to different schools for so long, it’s like there was no time lost. It’s been so fun being able to look back on the past and everything from Parkway. It felt like there was always something to talk about in the best way possible, whether that be some drama that you heard about or whatever is going on in the world of Taylor Sumner. There have been so many great memories from this year like the iconic pictures in front of the Alamo, finding Icy Hot at senior sunset and learning about all the brain rot that has now infested my mind. You’re one of the coolest people I know and I hope to hear about whatever drama Diet Coke girl runs into in the future.

To my friends (outside of newspaper): In these last four years, I’ve made so many new friends that I’ll never forget. I appreciate all that y’all have done for me. There have been so many great moments that I’ve shared with you all, the concerning amount of times that we’ve gone to Denny’s, all the movies we’ve seen and every little hangout we’ve had. I can’t forget the many friends I’ve made this year as the honorary member of theater. I just wanted to do what I could to help set up for the haunted house but with all the free time I had, I stuck around and made memories that I couldn’t have imagined. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without my friends and for that, I will be forever grateful.

To my parents: Thank you for everything you’ve done for me over the last 18 years. No matter what I’ve been interested in, y’all have always been there to support me. Soccer, orchestra, football and now newspaper. I think it’s fair to say y’all did a great job raising me. Every birthday, holiday and moment I’ve spent with you guys has been special and I wouldn’t trade it away for anything. Whether I’m at my highest or lowest, I know that I will always have y’all in my corner. Thank you for being by my side for all this time. 

My senior year of high school has been so special and one that I won’t forget. I’m proud to not only have been a writer for the Farmers’ Harvest but to have found success in it in just one year. I can confidently say that I know what I want to do with my life. I was lost before this year and didn’t know what I’d do in the future, it’s okay to be unsure of these things. All it takes is one year to find your passion so don’t stress so much. Be sure to enjoy yourself and make memories that will last a lifetime.