“Feeling more seen”: Alexandra Sulock, Opinions writer

I remember the first thing I thought about RV was “Oh my god, that place is enormous.” I told my parents I might as well be going to college with a school that big. In my eyes, you could have fit stadiums into that school. I felt like a speck of sand on a beach and it seemed too large to ever feel important in.

Now, I’m on my way to a college much larger than RV, feeling more seen than I ever did at my smaller schools.

RV has changed me for the better. I was able to strengthen my love for the arts as well as find new interest like jewelry making and forensics. I feel like a more well rounded person than I did when I first arrived. This is mostly thanks to all the great people I have met who have encouraged me to branch out.

I have made several amazing friends who have shown support for me over the years. They have encouraged me to show myself to the world and be proud of who I am. I have the staff of RV to thank as well. Teachers like Mr.Burns have pushed me to pursue my dreams, even if it meant doing extra for me. They would help me with my work and read over whatever I gave to them. Without their support, as well as my friend’s, I’m not sure how far I would have gone with my passions or if I would have even pursued them at all.

If I have learned anything in high school, it’s that you need to do things your way. You have to join clubs that interest you, take classes that you’ll love and be friends with people who respect you. At the end of the day, that is what will make you the happiest and most successful. That being said, you should also take a risk and try something new. If something peaks your interest, go for it because you may be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.

Nowadays, thanks yous are hard because they are often followed by goodbyes. It’s difficult to leave a place that felt like my second home, filled with so many people to appreciate and things to learn. But I would like to send my love to the Holly Spirit. I’ve only been a writer on the newspaper for a year now, but it was an amazing experience I know I’ll remember. The Holly Spirit has some of the hardest working people I’ve ever met (including Mrs. Sherman who does so much for the club). It’s inspiring to see so many people excited to create and push themselves to do their best. I would also like to thank the Lit Mag for supporting my growth as a writer and allowing me to do the same for them in return. I couldn’t be prouder of the community we have created and I’m so excited to see what the future holds for the Inklings.

I’m honored that this enormous school was the one to take me through my teenage years. I wish all of you the best and I know you will be amazing. 🙂