To the young freshman girl with a heart full of drive, fresh from Avondale Middle School ready to become a police officer, I just want you to know…it gets worse. 

No, I’m just kidding — well sort of, but I want you to know experience is a brutal thing, but you learn.

 I’ve changed my mind a lot, as one of the main goals in high school is trying to figure out what to do for college and what you want to be in the future. I’ve changed my mind quite a lot, ranging from police officer to doctor, from athletic trainer to anesthesiologist, from a forensic scientist to an author. The list goes on. 

I thought the work in the classrooms would be the center of my problems for school but truly, it was trying to figure out who I am and what I want to be. I enjoyed my time at Agua Fria, not only because I’ve made fun and enjoyable memories here with friends and teachers, classmates, and teammates, but because it was an environment where I could be allowed to find myself.

One of the places where I became a better version of myself was on the badminton courts with my teammates and my coach, Mr. Martin, where I had the best times of my life. 

I never thought I would love this sport as much as I do but it has become a huge part of me and my life in general. The time I spent with my girls will never be forgotten. It is something I will treasure and take with me in life. 

I remember fun pranks on the coach, long bus rides where we talked and laughed with each other to exhaustion, encouraging words and hugs after wins and loses, and the many other happy memories I’ve made with my badminton family.

There are many teachers I appreciate and am grateful for meeting and they are Ms. Johnson, Mr. Boothman, and Mr. Jovanelly. Thank you for creating a fun and safe atmosphere where learning and growth can take place and thrive. It has been a great four years at Agua Fria High School and I hope the class of 2022 has made a great impact on the school. 

To say I am proud to be a part of this school and class would be an understatement. 

From the bottom of my heart, I say thank you and goodbye.