As an incoming freshman in college, I cannot help this feeling I have of owing an overwhelming amount of thanks to my high school and the people who helped me get through those four years. So, this letter is dedicated to NHS, and all of my wonderful friends and family.

To My Alma Mater,

I can't believe I won't be returning to you in the fall. Nevertheless, there are so many things I need to thank you for. First of all, I learned many little important things, like writing a check, school spirit, etiquette, etc., but most importantly - the importance of punctuality. I have to admit that I wasn't very good at this in the beginning of my high school career, but eventually I realized how important it is to be on time (mainly because I couldn't damage my spotless record with a spot in detention). It's already benefited me so much, and I know it will continue to do so throughout my life. I'm happy I learned it while I was in high school.

Also, thank you for allowing me to have a creative outlet. Anyone who knows me knows how endlessly thankful I was for the music program. Besides the amazing opportunities we had to travel the world and perform in places many people dream of, I also met so many wonderful people through it. I know for a fact I will have forever friends because of this program specifically. No matter what I had to endure on any given school day, I always had music to fall back on. And I am forever grateful for having such an outlet to fall back on, express myself, and be free.

I am also thankful for the amazing teachers high school had provided throughout my years. I was so fortunate to have a handful of very extraordinary teachers during my time at NHS. From my band instructor, my sophomore year science teacher, my junior year history teacher, or my senior year English teacher, I am so thankful that I had each of you. You all made me excited for learning each day, and that's very hard to do considering I had senioritis since I was twelve. Nevertheless, thank you for going above and beyond and making school as interesting as possible.

In addition to special teachers, I was assigned a wonderful guidance counselor that made sure my high school experience was as pleasant as it could be. You never failed to answer all of my questions and make time to speak to me. You were always so happy to see me, no matter the circumstance. Between screaming throughout the entire guidance department after I was accepted into Seton Hall, comforting me during one of my anxiety attacks, adoring my prom photos or helping me throughout a few difficult times of my life, I have so many memories to cherish. I am so grateful that I had you by my side each year. Thank you for everything you've done for me.

Next, thank you for teaching me what true friends look like. I'm glad I know what to look for as I move on to college. Even though it might have been crappy at the time, I'm happy I know what real friendship looks like so it'll save me time in the future.

Along with learning about true friends, I'm endlessly thankful for the amazing friends I had made and had beside me during any and every step of my journey through high school. From my little squad, my other best friend, my first love, my marching band pals, my friends I've had since middle school, and even their parents who never cease to cheer me on, I am so blessed to have met each and every one of you. Even some of you may have exited my life, I'm so happy I had you by my side for even a minute, because you allowed me to become the person I am today. Thank you for everything.

Last but certainly not least, my lovely family. I can't even begin to fathom all of the sacrifices you made for me. Sitting out in the rain or freezing cold to watch me march a show, listening to me rant about something I talked about in school, helping me with calculus (thanks Dad), or even just being my shoulder to cry on (just to name a few), you've certainly done so much for me. I cannot express how much it all has meant to me, and I know you'll continue to be endlessly supportive as I move on to Seton Hall.

As I look back at my time at NHS, all I can think about is how thankful I am to have gone to such a great school. There certainly were some rough patches, but overall I have nothing but good things to say. But, even though this chapter ends, another one begins. And I can't wait to make everyone proud.