When I walked in the doors of WJ, my hair was arranged to hide my face. I constantly touched my bangs to make sure they were covering my acne. I always pushed my hair to the front so people wouldn’t notice how wide my face was. I slouched as I walked through the hallways and kept my eyes on the ground because I could feel everyone watching me.

When I push through the doors of WJ for the last time this May, my shoulders will be straight. My hair will be tucked behind my ears and I will be smiling wide.

Elanor Roosevelt said, “do something everyday that scares you.” Discovering my self confidence took time. It grew in small ways like talking to the person sitting next to me or raising my hand.

I also tried new things that pushed me outside my comfort zone. I studied abroad and learned a new language, I started a new sport and I gave journalism a try. Each of these activities helped me cultivate different skills. Living in a new country taught me how to introduce myself to new people and connect with them. Being on the crew team introduced me to strong girls like me who weren’t afraid to be loud and competent. Writing for the Pitch allowed me to uncover my voice and hone my writing ability.

Most of all, it was the people I met throughout high school who helped me build my confidence. I had role models like Mrs. Borrelli and Mr. Kerr who were so authentically themselves, it inspired me to be comfortable in my own skin. I made friends who accepted me and encouraged me to take opportunities and push myself.

When I look back at how much I’ve changed over the past four years, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. I’m also grateful to everyone who supported me. As excited I am to leave, I’m also cognizant of how impactful high school has been for me. When I begin this new chapter, I’ll be holding my head high.