At the end of eighth grade, I watched most of the High School Musical movies so I could know what high school was going to be like. I imagined kids singing and dancing on the table; instead, I walked into a school filled with confusion on students’ faces as they tried to find their classes. NEWS FLASH: High school is nothing like High School Musical, but by loving yourself you can get through the most bearable times.

I’m going to start this letter off by saying good luck to all underclassmen and future seniors; high school is one of the biggest obstacles you’ll have to go through in life. Whatever you think you already know about high school, you are in for a rude awakening.

You are going to make a lot of “friends.” I say “friends” because those are the people who aren’t on your side. They either want something from you or try to use you in any way they can. But you will also meet your family. People who are always there for you no matter what, who help you in your time of need and will pick you up when you’re down.

The main lesson I learned throughout my high school career is self-discipline. You have to be independent. You have to discipline yourself to make the right decisions even though influences around you are making wrong decisions.

After graduation, I’m going to move on to the next chapter in my life and go to the University of Minnesota and obtain a degree in journalism. I wish to become an investigative journalist so I can go more in depth in crimes and injustices amongst the world.

To my family: Thank you guys so much! You guys have helped me grow in so many different ways. Madison and Tierra since I am gone you are no longer thinking about yourselves. You have to put everyone else before yourself. Tierra you have to be strong. Dad is no longer your rock. You’ll have to hold each other up and listen to Dad because he is probably right.

To newspaper staff: You guys are my second family. We had our ups and downs but what family hasn’t? I would do anything for your guys. I wouldn’t trade you guys for the world.

Pinkham and editors: Thank you so much. I’ve been through so much this year; you all have helped and I am more than thankful for guys. You guys are my third family.

To my best friend: We have been through so much with each other. I’m so glad I met you this year. You are my life source. You are the only one who I cry to when I am having a rough day. I’m not afraid to be myself around you. You defended me when I was too hurt and too weak to do it myself, my ride or die. Take care of things when I’m away. I love you with all of my heart. Tell princess and Mom that I love them every day, and if you need me, I’m here for you – it doesn’t matter where I am. Love you.

So I want to end this letter with words of encouragement. You guys can do it! Don’t doubt for a minute that you can’t. You can do anything you put your mind to and so much more – and don’t forget to love yourself in the process, it will help you through life. Farewell, Lewisville High School.