I know I’m only a sophomore, upcoming junior in high school. But throughout these past two years in high school, I’ve been able to have it to myself, and make a name for myself as well. Finding new activities to do, and clubs to join right in the beginning can be intimidating, but it’s so worth it.

The first class I joined in high school was yearbook. I was the only freshman on staff and I was intimidated by the older kids and nervous. I didn’t know what exactly to expect out of it all. Turns out, it is the best decision I have ever made. Our job is to cover the students of the school, wrap up that school year in 200 pages, talk to people and really uncover what went on that specific school year. We work close together and spend a lot of time together. Through deadline, late productions and even photo ops. Through all that, you become so close to the people you work with. Especially this year, I have become so close to the other members of the staff.

These people have become my closest friends and I have no idea what I would do without them. We've developed this close, unbreakable, special bond that’s like no other. I’ve been able to go to Franklin College for state conventions, Ball State University for summer camps and Orlando for nationals. I’ve earned awards at these conventions for my work, which is amazing. The best part about it is being able to go with your best friends, and while you’re there, you can do what you love. Yearbook has created such a great opportunity for me. I’ve gained a higher up editor's position, lifelong friends, leadership skills and communication skills. Skills that will help me through life. I’m so fortunate to be a part of something special like that.

I’ve also been able to join clubs like CASS, Best Buddies, and Fall/Spring theater production crew. Through these, I’ve been able to expand my horizon and meet so many new people. My freshman year I did Theater crew, which was interesting. I didn’t realize how much went into these productions. I got to know people within the club who I wouldn’t meet anywhere else. Best Buddies also created an opportunity to work with amazing people. At CASS, I got to work with sixth graders and teach them about bullying and how to create a safe school. I loved that because I feel like I’m helping enlighten the young mind of middle schoolers and hopefully inspiring to act nice towards one another. It’s like changing the new generation. That’s a feeling like no other. Being able to do that, and being able to work with new people in your group to help with. That’s an amazing feeling. It’s like leaving a mark on someone, and hoping that’ll inspire them to act or change in response.

Finally, joining sports is one of my favorite things. I joined track my freshman year, hoping for it to be fun, and I was right. Not only did it get me in insanely good shape, but I met my closest friends there as well. We created this unbreakable bond there as well. I’ve met amazing, talented people while doing track also, that I feel honored to have known. I’ve also been able to do soccer. I’ve met a whole group of new girls that I’ve become close to as well. Being able to play my favorite sports with amazing people like them is the best, and I feel so lucky to be able to do that. The many months of commitment to that sport is so worth it in the end.

Overall, joining many clubs in high school has given me the opportunity to meet so many great people who share interests that are like mine. The best part is you meet a lot of cool, amazing people, and the fact they like things like you makes it so much better. You become well rounded, known and gain many skills throughout it all that will help you throughout life. Doing these clubs have helped shape me into who I am now, and I’m glad I’ve been given the opportunity to do it all. I can’t wait for the next two years of school to do it all again and maybe try even more.