My freshman year is almost ending, and I can’t express how grateful I am that one, it’s over, and two, for the people I’ve met this year. This is my first year in a new county, so it was most definitely not all sunshine and rainbows, but it was an experience that I needed to live. This year has most definitely had its ups and downs, but that’s what allows people to grow, and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I’ve learned a lot from this experience because I’ve learned to be more independent, organized, and outgoing, and I learned not to let a wishbone grow where there should be a backbone. I grew up in Manassas, went to school there from K-8th grade, then during the summer, I moved here to Fauquier. At first, it was very hard adjusting to living here since I didn’t know anyone, but I kept an open mind as much as I could, and that slowly started to go away as soon as school started approaching.
When I say that this year has had its ups and downs is because it’s not what I would have imagined for myself a few years ago. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed my experience here at Liberty, however, I wish it could have been different. For example, I’ve met people whom I would’ve never met if I were still in Manassas. The year started great. I had some great teachers and made good friends, but then the year started to slowly go downhill during my second semester. I had some issues with some teachers and students, but nothing major. Not every student is going to like you, just like you’re not going to like every teacher; however, it doesn’t cost anything to be nice, so it’s good to be nice to people just because you can. One of my teachers wasn’t supporting me as much as I would’ve liked, and it was most definitely challenging having to learn the material myself. Although it was challenging, this taught me to be more independent, and it taught me to navigate through all the obstacles that life throws at me because I know my teacher would’ve loved to give me more support if they had the opportunity.
Although my year wasn’t what I would have wanted, it had some great experiences. I met some seniors that I’m very proud of for graduating, and I’m very sad they are leaving; however, I know that they will do great things. I’ve met some great teachers here as well, such as Mr. Lockhart and Senora Jaraba, and the choir teacher, Ms Hoffman. They have all taught me very well, and they taught me very inspirational things. I will never forget the advice they gave me and all the laughs we shared. Mr. Lockhart taught me to be straightforward and say things with my chest. Senora Jaraba taught me to be proud of my heritage and to stay true to myself. Ms. Hoffman taught me to put my mental health first, despite what might be happening. These three teachers have made me such a better person, and they have taught me so much that I will always take the advice they gave me to heart. Of course, during my year here, I’ve had many teachers who have inspired me; however, these three are the ones who had the greatest impact on me. I’m distraught that I won’t be with these three teachers during my high school years anymore. However, I believe that everything happens for a reason, so I’m glad that I got to meet them, and I know they will be great wherever life takes them. I wish nothing but the best for them.
I enjoyed this year, although I’m not where I would like to be. Life works in mysterious ways, so it’s best to make do with what I have. I am excited to see what experience I will have next year. I hope to have a good student-teacher relationship with the teachers I have next year. Although I don’t know what life will throw at me in the future, I know that with the support of my family and friends, I’ll be able to accomplish anything. This year was very memorable, and I will hold it in my heart dearly because it’s definitely the start of something great that is yet to come. With this being said, I would like to thank everyone for their great support and encouragement that they have given me. I’m forever grateful to have met every single one of you. I hope everyone has a good summer, and congratulations to the class of 2025!!
