It’s finally over. Below is my disorganized collection of lessons I learned from my four unnecessarily long years at ARHS. At least try to enjoy the comedic references. 🙂

#1 Quality over quantity!

I can’t begin to tell you how long it took me to finally understand this and use it in any situation in my life. You have less to worry about and can focus on what’s truly important. As Kevin Malone said from The Office (if you haven’t watched the show, what are you doing?), “Me think, why waste time say lot word, when few word do trick.”

#2 Freshies, it’s going to be okay

I think this quote from Parks and Recreation perfectly summed up my freshman year: “I have no idea what I’m doing, but I know I’m doing it well.” I know, freshman year can be daunting. Imagine having the pandemic sabotage both of your first two years of high school…but, it’s going to be okay. Think positive, find your group and slay away. 

***Also, make sure to try to heal yourself before going to high school since usually everyone’s experience at middle school was traumatizing (I know mine was).

#3 Just go to Parker when you’re having a bad day

Whenever I felt anxious or was having a bad day, I went on a mental health walk. I then went to the library to see Parker. Freshman year for the US History midterms, I was feeling super anxious even though I had prepared for the exam rigorously, so I went to see Parker and felt immediately at ease. I got a 97% on the exam (pretty good if I do say so myself). Dogs are scientifically proven to reduce stress and anxious thoughts. Gonk loves Parker!

#4 You can do this!

Keep going. There is always, always, always going to be light after the darkness. You just have to keep pushing on. There were so many times throughout my high school career (is it really a career though?) that I felt hopeless but I never truly gave up. I knew that I had to push on for myself so I did. Through all the trials and tribulations, you will come out of it stronger than ever. Just keep on pushing forward through all the trash!!

Honestly at this point, I just want to leave so I’m gonna end with this quote that the great Michael Scott once said that summarizes this chaotic reflection: “I knew exactly what to do…but in a much more real sense, I had no idea what to do.”

Ok, well that’s it. Not going to miss you Gonk so peace out.