As I look back at my high school years, I find myself looking back at each year of my life and the one constant thing is my love for the newspaper. I entered freshman year wanting to be on the newspaper staff and even when I found out I couldn’t be on staff as a freshman I still dreamed of the day I was writing for fun and not for my English class. I was petrified when I was interviewed for the class, I physically couldn’t stop shaking (this is something that will become a recurring event). I eventually found out I made the class through my mom who had talked to Mr. Nelson over the summer during sidewalk sales because the schedules had not come out. I was over the moon with joy and could not wait for sophomore year. Entering the class I planned on just staying a staff member; however, with influences from the veteran staff members and a pure will to go to the JEA trip I applied to be the opinion editor. Once again waiting for the results to see if I got the position, I was shaking. This was something I worked toward and really wanted to try. Finding out I was a page editor for a page that always ran was a big thing for me and ultimately solidified the idea of me becoming the editor-in-chief. Junior year came and I had one thing in mind: Philadelphia. I was determined to sell enough ad money for me to attend JEA in Philadelphia. I spent all day running around town to raise enough money, eventually I got enough money and was on the plane to Philadelphia. This trip is something that still I smile talking about, the people I attended with truly made it a blast. Throughout junior year, I became completely dedicated to being named the top leadership position of the class. I assisted my editors in any way, and helped my adviser and learned as much as I possibly could. As the end of the year rolled around, I physically struggled to breathe in the class because of the anticipation of the announcement. I remember looking at Ben (my editor-in-chief) and not being able to breathe. The time came and after staff awards Mr. Nelson announced the staff. When he said my name I think I physically blacked out. I worked for that moment and could not believe I got it. I turned to Savanna who was named my co. editor and whispered to her
“I’m so glad you are my co. editor.”
Ending the school year on that note made my day. Entering senior year meant a year of last. I am so beyond proud to say I was an editor-in-chief for the Sugar Beet.
As I write my final story, it’s all bitter sweet emotions. I’m saying goodbye to something I’ve dreamt of–being a part of a group who understands me.
Mr. Nelson, I want to thank you for believing in me and trusting me with the staff this past year, you will always be my first call for letters of recommendation.
To my parents, thank you for believing in me every step of the way. For the time you held me while I had anxiety attacks over editor positions or the times I had a hard day. I love you.
To my brothers, thank you for reading my papers and waiting for the releases so we could question some of the stories.
GCHS has been a large part of my life for the past four years. The late work nights and running around the halls will always be fond memories, Goodbye GCHS.
