With my time in high school rapidly coming to a close, there is a lot to reflect on after spending four years here at Manhattan High. I began my high school journey in 2021 at East Campus, and since then, the building has changed a lot, the people have changed a lot and the world has changed a lot. I’ve gone through four seasons of cross country and have almost wrapped up my fourth season of tennis. I’ve learned about different school organizations, joined different organizations, participated in organizations, and outgrew organizations all since I started high school just four years ago. What I’m trying to say is that your time in high school flies by, so don’t waste it.

It is no secret that high school keeps you busy, but you can’t spend all your time worrying about the A that just dropped to a B or the next test that could drop you a grade letter. Sure, I don’t mean give up on school or neglect your studies, but it is important to focus on other things in high school or you’ll miss out on too much. I am proud of a lot of things I’ve accomplished in high school, but I’m leaving with some regrets too. 

After a junior year jam packed with tough classes and many extracurricular activities, I left the year wishing I had done more. Heading into my senior year, I made it my goal to say “yes” to as many things as possible. Someone asks me to go to the soccer game with them? “Yes!” Someone asks for a late night Target run? “Of course!” My goal was to not leave high school, especially my senior year, with any regrets. This goal didn’t just apply to outside of school activities, but also inside of school. If I had the feeling to go and talk to someone or say hi to someone in the hallway who I don’t normally say hi to, I would urge myself to go for it. There were times throughout the year where this idea was incredibly difficult, but I’m leaving this year with minimal regrets and a whole new appreciation for pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. 

I once saw a picture of someone holding up a sign that said “If you weren’t invited, don’t ask to go.” While I agree with that sentiment in some ways, (like don’t show up to a wedding you weren’t invited to), I think seeing this as a young high schooler really impacted me and my experience throughout high school. Instead of going to hang out with friends or sit with someone at lunch, if I didn’t feel invited, I wouldn’t go. However, I think high school is the most important time of your life to go to places you weren’t invited to. Whether it’s a party or a lunch table, don’t be afraid to pull up the chair. You’re going to miss out on so many opportunities if you don’t go where you feel uncomfortable. 

Next week, I will walk the stage at Bramlage Coliseum with my cap and gown. I’ll shake the hands of the administrators and I will walk back down to my seat, and that’ll be it. If I graduated this time last year, I would’ve left with some regrets. However, this year is different. This year, I pushed myself out of my comfort zone, and I’m walking the stage with no regrets. I encourage every person in this high school to do the same. Don’t be afraid to pull up the chair.