It’s hard to find the words to describe one of the best people you’ve ever met, but if I had to choose them, it would be strong and authentic. Lauren Dominguez is one of the best people I have met since coming to this school. She’s had her ups and downs in her 4 years here at Agua Fria, but with determination, she made it through and did what she had to do to get to the point she’s at now.

I’ve gotten the chance to get to know Lauren and become friends with her, and I’m so happy I did. She’s become one of my favorite people, and I am so glad that I got the opportunity to enjoy these past two years with her, watching her grow and become a better version of herself, and so have many others. One of Lauren’s best friends, Carmen Morales, heavily agrees with this, stating how, “ Over the years I’ve watched Lauren grow mentally, working harder in school and her personal life as well, she’s become a better version of herself while also pushing for success.” I also wanted to see how one of my and Lauren’s teachers, Ms.Fowler, perspective on the past two years with Lauren has grown and changed. During the interview, I asked what it was like having Lauren in her class. She said, “ Lauren has always been such a good student, working hard to stay on top of her work in English last year, Ap Lit this year, and Journalism during both years, writing articles that many people are interested in.” Coincidentally, when I asked Lauren about one of the most influential teachers she’s had, she said Ms. Fowler. “Ms. Fowler has always made sure to help me see my potential even during the times when I struggle.” Lauren also said that she is one of the most loving and bubbly teachers you can have.

Lauren has been thinking of her future as well, saying, “After high school, I plan to go to community college to get my associate’s degree and then move further with my degrees to become a pediatrician.” She also plans to keep working, saving money, and building her credit so she’s financially stable and able to buy her first home and travel when she has the time. She’s ready to move on and grow in life, looking back at high school as a good memory. Lauren views her high school years as bittersweet and chaotic but developing, saying she feels she has grown more as a person and “found myself more at peace.” She’s made many great memories, one of the best was meeting her best friend in her freshman year while she was a senior, and they have stayed best friends since then, being there for each other in the many ups and downs life has thrown at them.

I asked Lauren for a piece of advice for the juniors becoming seniors in this coming up school year and here’s what she said, “Do not give up, senioritis is a real thing and although it can get to you all the hard work you’ve put into to learning and achieving what you have over the past 4 years will all pay off and be worth it, remember that.” She also makes sure to mention that although the stress can be a lot, there are many things you can do to help manage it, like taking breaks, relaxing, and taking the time you need to be able to focus. Focus on yourself overall; in the end, you should be your top priority.

I can’t imagine what life would’ve been like if I had never met Lauren or if I had never switched to journalism, and the chair beside her wasn’t empty. From the first day I met her, she was so willing to help me and was nicer than anyone else I could’ve sat next to would’ve been. She’s been the same kind, caring, beautiful person since then, and I will be forever grateful for that. I’ve watched her crash out and now I’m going to be watching her graduate. It is going to be one of the most bittersweet moments of high school. I was so proud of her then and even prouder now. I’ve loved watching her grow and can’t wait to see what she makes of herself. Good luck, Lauren, I wish you all the best!