Starting my freshman year of high school in a room on a computer was great, only for getting easy grades and more sleep. Like many others in my graduating class, I didn’t step foot into the building until my sophomore year, and even then, I didn’t see anyone’s face fully until after winter break. 

I didn’t have the same time to get used to the school and make new friends as usual, but these past four years have been the most eventful years of my life. I have learned so much throughout my time at Plainfield East and it has made me the person that I am today.

I wish I had known what I wanted to do after high school a lot earlier because if I had, I would for sure have been a part of East Side News from the very beginning. I would also have started journalism a lot sooner, but for my one and only year doing this, I have loved every minute of it. So, if you’re considering joining, please do. It is a very fun experience, and the people here are great.

I have met so many new people along the way, and I would like to thank everyone who has been a part of my time here at East. I hope to keep the relationships that I have with each one of you as best as I can; you will not be forgotten.

To my teachers, I thank you for being understanding when I was dealing with things outside of school and for giving me guidance if I ever asked for it. It really does mean a lot to me.

To the football team, thank you for giving me an experience that I will never forget. Even after I had to medically retire from the game I loved, you still treated me like I was family and a part of the team, and I truly appreciate it. I’ll be back, without a doubt.

To the track team, thank you for believing in me and getting me out of my comfort zone. I would have never thought I would become a team captain with how quiet I was, but you made me want to become a leader after seeing those before me lead by example. I have also met some of my closest friends through track, and they helped me when I was at my lowest, and I can’t thank you all enough for doing so.

That said, I will continue to pursue my career as a sports journalist/analyst at the University of Northern Illinois while majoring in journalism.

Thank you, Plainfield East, for giving me an experience that I will never forget. I entered not having a clue what to do, and I’m leaving at the highest point I’ve ever been in my life. I couldn’t have done it without everyone I met who entered this building. 

It’s best to be a Bengal.