Dear High School,

As my first year of college comes to a close, I've had some time to reflect on how lucky I was to go to my high school. I've had so many amazing opportunities, and I've learned so much that has helped me in the long run for college.

Thanks to high school, I was able to further develop my love for writing. I was one of the few people in high school that actually enjoyed writing essays and doing creative writing assignments. My teachers allowed me to let my writing skills grow. They gave me good feedback to help me get better and praised me where I did well.

Not only did my writing skills begin to shine in high school, but my photography skills began to shine through as well. Taking three years of photography was one of the best decisions I've ever done for myself. It has allowed me to see things from a different perspective and made me want to capture every moment. I miss that class so dearly and I would do anything to go back to it.

High school allowed me to make so many amazing friends and get close to my teachers. I still talk to some of my graduating class one year later, and I'm fortunate enough to keep in mind that there are people still back home who are rooting for me and care about me.

I've made so many amazing memories throughout my time in high school that I will cherish forever. From going to the Philadelphia Zoo in freshman year, to all of the homecoming dances and going to Cocco's after each one, to going to Disney World for my senior class trip and getting to ride Tower of Terror with some of my favorite teachers, every moment I had while in high school was so precious, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

So, high school, thank you. Thank you for the experiences. Thank you for the memories. Thank you for the friendships that I'm going to cherish forever. Thank you for the life lessons. Thank you for the amazing teachers that I grew close to and could go to for anything.

Thank you for preparing me for the biggest endeavor of my life: college. High school was an amazing journey, and I'm glad I got to go through it at an amazing school. Thank you.

Love,

Christina