It's hard to believe that my time as a student at Shanksville-Stonycreek is coming to a close. It just seems like yesterday my classmates and I were walking these halls as elementary students. Shanksville High School has become a second home, with teachers that care so much about their students, and classmates that have become like family. My classmates would most likely agree with me when I say that these past 13 years together have made our class grow closer and have given us so many memories to reflect on together. It’s difficult to wrap my mind around the fact that I won’t see my class every day anymore, listen to someone’s ridiculous story, laugh at someone’s joke, or spending extra time in the office with our secretary just to get out of class. Life was simple, relaxed, and enjoyable here and there was always someone to talk to, give advice, and a simple hug was always there when it was needed. I definitely am going to miss Shanksville, but I’m ready to get onto bigger and better things.

During these last couple weeks of high school it has finally kicked in that I’m graduating soon, and the same feelings have been arising in my classmates. We have all tried our hardest to spend these last couple weeks together, because who knows when we'll see each other again. But as the days go by and I have stepped back to take in what our class has become, it has made me anxious for my future and for everyone's plans after high school. As we part our separate ways, I know that each one of us are going to achieve great heights in our lifetime, all thanks to a place that has encouraged us to become great people.