Everyone likes to pretend like high school was a terrible time in their lives and that they want nothing to do with it after graduation. I'm not afraid to say that I actually very much enjoyed my high school experience! Sure, it was tough and I came across some people I wouldn't mind if I never saw them again, but everything else was generally pretty positive.

For that, I have a few thank-yous to offer to my high school and everyone in it.

For one thing, my school had tons of spirit. Despite most of us only coming to the school because we were within the district, the student population was proud to be there. We were constantly earning recognition as "Best Student Section" and "Toughest Gym To Play In" from local news outlets. So thank you, Villa Park, for 4 years of Spartan spirit and for displaying our blue, black, and silver with pride.

On top of that, I came across some very intelligent and interesting people. Going to a public high school allowed me to meet many different people from all sorts of backgrounds. I made friends in all different sports and organizations. There were many people I met that I was not the biggest fan of, but that's inevitable. So thank you, Villa Park, for allowing me to explore the minds of people who were different from me.

My school also allowed me to do things I never thought I could do. I began high school absolutely terrified, yet the friendly environment allowed me to gain a significant amount of confidence. I played two sports and participated in a leadership class. Those are two things that really made my experience there unforgettable. So thank you, Villa Park, for providing me with those experiences that truly did change my life for the better.

All these reasons are great and make me happy, but there is one that has really stuck out to me within the past week.

I still keep up with some people who attend the school. I learned through social media that a student was recently diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. I never knew the student personally, but their friends describe them as one of the funniest and most positive people they've ever met, as well as someone who will always have a friend's back when they need it.

Which may be exactly why they are getting the support that they are.

That support is what really grabbed my attention.

Just days after the news got out, I have seen so many instances of friends, teachers, and coaches all vocalizing their concerns for this student. Even if they don't know them personally, they have made it known that they are in their corner and the entire school will be there for them every step of the way. Seeing that sort of love and maturity from 2000+ teenagers for one of their peers is such an amazing thing. I feel honored to have come from a group of students who care so much about those around them.

So thank you, Villa Park, for coming together to offer your support for one of your fellow students. I'm more proud to be a Spartan now than ever before.

I am so proud of each and every one of the students who has offered their hand to one who needs it.

I am especially proud of the affected student and I — along with all these wonderful past, present and future Spartans — am rooting for you.