Being a photographer for the Dispatch has been a great experience and I’m glad I joined last year. I took digital media sophomore year as a filler elective class that I thought would be chill and easy. Learning about photography sparked my interest in cameras that soon turned into a creative, niche hobby. So, I joined the school newspaper junior year and became a member of the media team. I remember Gabby taking me, Will, and Arlo to the first football game of the year at Manor, where Arlo and I learned how to shoot sports. I had a really good time and wanted to go to more football games. As I went to more events, I got better, learned more, and got more involved at school. Over the past two years, I grew not only as a photographer but as a person, and there’s multiple people that contributed to this growth. 

To Mr. Reeves:

Thank you for being the boss that kept me responsible for my work. You pushed each of us to work harder and produce a better newspaper. Although we didn’t exactly get along senior year, I still respect and thank you because I wouldn’t be here without your help. Additionally, you prepared me for the future by showing me a true work environment. 

To Gus, Ben, and Diego: 

Thank y’all for being great tablemates and friends. You guys helped me become more of a leader, asking me for help with cameras, work, and school. I wish y’all luck in everything you do and can’t wait to see where y’all take the Dispatch.

To Arlo, Cooper, and Sawyer: 

You guys started with me and we learned everything together. Even though y’all are a year younger than me, y’all always acted as strong leaders within the Dispatch. I’m excited to see your many successes. 

To Andrew:

You were with me in digital media and stuck with me throughout newspaper. We learned everything together and I will never forget watching film everyday in class. Thank you for being there for me and supporting me, even though you got banned to 6th period both years. 

To Will: 

You’re my real goat with the camera. You taught me everything I know about shooting photos/video, and acted as a role model in the Dispatch. I’ve always admired your work and wanted to be just as good as you. We always played lax together, but newspaper made us closer friends. Thanks for always being there with me, whether we were going to sports games or getting in trouble with Reeves.  

To Gabby:

You’re another goat that always supported and helped me. We’ve been friends since middle school, but got closer through newspaper class. I never thought I would admit this but you were one of the reasons I stepped out of my comfort zone. At the beginning of junior year you told me that you would make me chalant by the end of the year, and I actually did change throughout the year. Thank you for everything: being there for me, involving me, and telling me terrible jokes. You’re a great friend to everyone and I know you’ll be successful in everything you do.