I can’t believe that a mistake on my transcript changed my life. At the beginning of junior year, I got my schedule along with everyone else but instead of yearbook, the class I picked on my choice sheet the year previous, my second period was in newspaper, and yearbook was nowhere to be found. At first, I was determined to have my schedule changed and return to the yearbook, but from the first day of class, I felt welcomed and drawn to the potential to do more writing than I ever could in the yearbook. After discussing with Ms. Shirack the yearbook teacher and switching my schedule to include both newspaper and yearbook, I talked to Mr. Reeves about my strengths and areas I gravitate towards, and he offered the option to create a photo essay. The proposition was daunting, to say the least. I didn’t know where to start, I had never written a news story before let alone curating five to six photos for a publication. My first issue story was terrible. But I loved it, I loved the process of creating a story and page from nothing, and I loved seeing my work printed. Mr. Reeves took the time to help me become a better writer and photographer, so I could utilize the creative freedom that photo essays allowed. Skills that I continue to use today. Newspaper will always stick out to me when reflecting on my time in high school. I’ve learned so much from this organization even in the two years I’ve been on staff. 

I am eternally grateful to the leadership team: Kate, Mazzy, Sophia, Charlotte, and Asher. You are some of the coolest people I’ve ever met. Every one of you is bound for greatness and I can’t wait to see what you will achieve in your life. You have all kept me going this year and made the deadline weeks more bearable. I owe so much of my success to every one of you. Sophia, from the moment you fainted in my arms that day in junior year I knew we would be good friends and we have. Thank you for sticking by me through the crazinesses the past two years have brought. You are so smart, effortlessly funny, and kind, I can not wait to see all that you will undoubtedly accomplish throughout your life. Kate, you are such an exceptional person and leader. While this year presented many challenges you overcame them with grace and elegance. Mazzy you are such an incredible person, and I am in constant awe of you. You and Kate have been amazing examples of leadership and perseverance, qualities that will take you far. The world is not ready for all that you two will do. Asher your talent is boundless and I am so excited to see how your creativity will grow and where it will take you. You tackle every project with such poise, always creating something that I couldn’t even dream of designing. Remember not to forget us when you’re a famous artist. Charlotte, even though we didn’t really become friends until this year, I feel like we have known each other for years. Your kindness towards others inspires me every day and I am so grateful to have worked with you this year, you are an incredible writer and have pushed me to be a better one. I know without a doubt that anything you set your mind to you will achieve. 

I feel I have found my place in the newspaper more than any other organization I’ve been a part of. I found people who cared about current events and our school community the way that I do. Having the space to create and write consistently helped me have the confidence to choose English and political science as my majors in college. Newspaper has forced me to become a better communicator, writer, and person. I am incredibly fortunate to have been a part of this organization. 

To my teachers: I have had so many exceptional teachers throughout my years at Bowie, but I’d like to give a special thanks to Ms. Flick, Ms. Westermoreland, Ms. Shirack, and Mr. Flick. Ms. Flick I have had the pleasure of being your student for the past two years. You are truly the best math teacher I’ve ever had and will ever have. I have struggled in math for most of my life but being in your class has made the subject one of my favorites. Ms. Westmoreland, thank you for being an amazing chemistry teacher and mentor. Although AP chem was the most difficult class I took during my high school career, the course was entirely worth it, all thanks to your dedication to teaching. Ms. Shirack, I learned so much during my time in yearbook. Thank you for teaching me the power of a good picture and the elements of design, but more than that thank you for believing in me when I couldn’t and seeing my potential. To Mr. Flick, your class makes me want to come to school and has been my favorite English course I have ever taken. I’ve always loved reading and writing but having the opportunity to deepen my understanding of literature strengthened my writing and analyzing skills all of which will help me for the rest of my life. 

To my family: Thank you for all the love and support you have given me. Mom and Dad thank you for always being my biggest cheerleaders’ and pushing me to tackle things I never thought I could. Without your encouragement, I would not be in the place I am today. I am expecting many visits to Boston!  

To Mr. Reeves: I am so thankful to be a part of the amazing journalism program you have created here at Bowie. Although my time in the newspaper is shorter than most, being a part of this staff has become a pinnacle part of my high school career. Your guidance has made me a better writer, journalist, and person. Thank you for giving me the ability to do what I love.