I still remember walking into Ames High for the first time—nervous, excited, and wondering how I’d ever survive four years (being a non-native English speaker btw). Now, somehow, I’m writing this column with a cap and gown just days away. It’s funny how slow the days felt back then, and how fast the years flew by.

High school has been a mix of everything: late-night study sessions, cheerleading practices that felt like family reunions and a break from school ( crying during practice was my little break from school), group projects that somehow turned into life lessons (especially the U.S. History ones), and the endless laughter in the hallways probably looking insane sometimes, but at least I was laughing. Each memory helped shape me into the person I am today.

Moving to the U.S. from Honduras seven years ago was horrible and weird, not having my childhood friends with me was scary and the thought of graduating with total strangers instead of my friends was even scarier, I never imagined I’d end up finding a second home at Ames High. From cheering at football games to writing for the newspaper, I found a voice and a purpose here, a purpose that helped me survive all 4 years without missing my country and my real home. Journalism gave me a space to share stories,opinions, and thoughts; it helped me realize I want to keep telling them hopefully one day as a journalist.

To my teachers, thank you for your patience and for challenging me to think deeper ( good job with surviving my little English barrier). To my friends, thank you for the daily “bathroom” runs to starbucks, the pep talks, and every inside joke that made the stressful days better. And to the underclassmen: take a breath, give yourself grace, and make the most of your time here. It really does go by fast and sometimes you feel like you didn’t do much so really focus on making memories. 

I’m excited (and a little scared) for what’s next, but I’m grateful for every moment that got me here. Ames High you’ll always be part of my story (literally).