When I first saw “Class of 2023” printed on the envelopes at my fifth grade graduation, I thought it was an eternity away. I can’t believe that the year is here.

I started high school so certain of what I wanted to do: Join newspaper and create digital media. I was able to do just that and more. Over the course of my four years on staff, I have had countless opportunities to create digital content for The Dispatch Online while sharing my passions with other students. I have had the pleasure of being the Online Editor-in-Chief for the last two years, and I have greatly enjoyed being able to do what I love. Now, I’m stepping into a world of possibility. I no longer know exactly what I will end up doing — And I’m endlessly excited. 

Everything I have learned at Bowie has prepared me for this new unknown chapter of my life. I have met so many amazing and passionate people who have inspired and shaped me as a person. 

To Mr. Reeves:

Your passion for the journalism program has pushed me to do things I never would have expected. Your guidance has pushed me to become a better journalist, student, creator and person. I started out as a nervous freshman who was greatly intimidated by the awards plastered on our classroom’s walls. Now, I can say that I am a part of it. Being on staff has been integral to my high school experience. I have learned so much about journalism, organization, perseverance, and my own passions. Thank you for giving me the chance to do what I love. Thank you for believing in me.

To Izzy:

Without you, I would have never set foot on the football field. You’ve pushed me to step out of my comfort zone to create videos, and I can’t thank you enough. Now I can say that I understand a bit more about football! Making videos with you have been some of my favorite moments in newspaper. Your perseverance and passion have inspired me to work hard as an editor. I cannot thank you enough. I can’t wait to see what you do in the future, and I miss you!

To my family:

Thank you for all of the love and support you have given me. Mom and Dad, thank you for urging me to do things I didn’t think I could. You’ve pushed me to believe in myself— without you, I likely would never have achieved many of the things I have! I love you guys, and I am expecting plenty of visits in New York! Caroline, you make life very entertaining. I’ll miss having you around. I hope that you stick with woman club! Remember that you still have plenty of time to discover what you want to do, and no matter what I am proud of you. Don’t miss me too much!

To my friends:

Thanks for sticking with me through these years! I will miss all of you so much. From late-night voice calls and sukiyaki parties to spontaneous sonic trips, I’ve enjoyed every experience with you guys. Sarah and Cala, thank you for always being there for me. Expect visits from me in Montana and Maryland! I love you guys so much, and I appreciate everything y’all have done for me.

To my teachers:

There are so many teachers who have positively influenced my experience at Bowie, but I want to give special thanks to Mr. Nourse, Mr. Flick, and Mrs. Davis. Mr. Nourse, I have had the pleasure of taking your animation courses for the past three years. You have taught me so much about both animation and pursuing my passions. Your class has allowed me to grow as an animator, student and person. I appreciate all of the efforts you have put into igniting the passions of young animators. Thank you for all that you do. Mr. Flick, your class has been my favorite English course at Bowie by far. I’ve always enjoyed reading, but getting to deeply analyze and understand literature has granted me a much deeper appreciation for it. I’ve learned so much that has helped my critical thinking and writing skills. Thank you for being a great teacher and mentor. Mrs. Davis, thank you for being such an amazing biology teacher. I was initially terrified to be taking a higher-level science course, but I ended up loving it. Who knows, maybe I’ll be able to find an intersection between biology and multimedia creation!

To Alex:

I remember how you were initially anxious when I asked you to create art for a story. Now, It’s safe to say that you are one of the best artists and graphic designers on staff. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and create. I’ve been lucky to witness your growth as a journalist. You have created so many awesome things, and I will be keeping an eye on the Dispatch online next year!! I can’t wait to see what you do next. You’re going to be a great editor. I know you can do it. Good luck in the future, and remember that I am insanely proud of you! 

To Austin, Mars and the returning Dispatch staff:

First off, I am so proud of you all! I’ve had the pleasure of seeing you all grow into great journalists! Keep doing what you’re doing! Austin, you’re an incredibly-skilled photographer and videographer. You’ve got an eye for capturing beautiful shots. I can’t wait to see what you do in the future. Mars, your passion and perseverance is highly admirable. Your charisma and skills have allowed for some awesome projects. I hope you continue the “Mars joins” series!! I’ll be watching! Bella and Audrey, I love your podcast series. I hope you both continue to do what you enjoy. To everyone else on staff: Best of luck next year! I can’t wait to see how the Dispatch continues to grow! 

Next year, I will be majoring in Film & Television at New York University. I hope to pursue a dual degree in Business. I don’t know exactly what I will end up doing in the future but I know that no matter what I will continue to create. I can’t wait to find out what is to come. The Dispatch will forever hold a special place in my heart.

Always,

Natalie ?