It’s very weird to think it has been four years since I was a freshman here at JHS. When I first arrived, I remember how scared I felt about getting lost, all of the homework I may receive and if the upperclassmen would pick on me. I also remember how excited I was while looking towards graduation day and thinking about how happy I would be to finally get out of Jacksonville.
This has changed quite a bit, but so have I. The last few weeks I’ve been feeling indifferent towards the idea of graduating and leaving all my friends and family behind when I leave. Instead of being completely excited for everything to come, I’ve become more nervous and sad when thinking about it. Don’t get me wrong; I’m excited to have freedom and to start something new, but I will have to get used to the new daily routines and not being able to see my parents, brother, or friends every day.
Lately, I feel as though I’ve gone through a lot of lasts. I’ve had my last football game, Homecoming, pep rally and Prom. But coming rather quickly will be my last softball game, which I’m least excited for. My team is a family on and off the field as we would do pretty much everything together. Plus, unlike most all-girl teams, we barely have any drama which I believe helps make us closer. The coaches we’ve picked up this year have been my favorite so far. They are both fair, but they also relate a lot to us which makes them very likable.
Along with the things I will miss, I have many things I’m looking forward to. I’m excited to have some independence and to make new friends when I’m off at college. My roommate and I are very excited to decorate our dorm and join sororities. As the summer goes on, I’m sure I’ll become more excited about leaving Jacksonville and just growing up in general.
As much as people talk about how high school will be the best time of your life, I somewhat agree with that. My high school years have been a time of growing up. These years have been carefree and full of excitement. There have been no worries or responsibilities. I have made a lot of friends but I have also lost a lot of friends while realizing who the real ones are.
On graduation day, I’ll be a very emotional, filled with joy, sadness, and nostalgia. As I walk across the stage, I’m sure my mom and even my dad will shed a tear but beam with pride at the same time. All the parents will be preparing themselves for the end of the summer when they send their babies off to college or wherever they may be going. I’m prepared for what life will bring me in my future, but I will always look back on these years with happiness.