It’s time. Graduation has finally caught up to me, and honestly, I wouldn’t trade it for the world. Sure, there were times that I threatened and contemplated on dropping out on more than one occasion, but overall, I’d give it a seven out of ten– on a good day. Coming into high school, I had no idea that I would gain so many great friends who would end up becoming family to me.

North Platte High School has taught me that a lot of things are okay: stressing out is okay, crying because I stayed up all night trying to get an essay finished is okay, failing for the first time is okay, not having a 4.0 GPA is okay, and being myself is okay. I’d say that over the course of my four years, my teachers and counselors have really influenced my plans and expectations for my future. They made me believe that I could really be whoever I want to be, and to reach for the stars. One day, I’ll look back at the times in Jeremy Stevens’ class and realize that people didn’t really watch CNN for the news, but only for Carl Azuz’s cheesy puns for the day. Also, I want to give a shout out to Steven’s for being the chillest teacher out there–you rock! Let’s not forget Josh Bruck, the one teacher who gives the greatest dad advice when I needed it the most.

Four years of high school have made me realize what I really wanted to do when I grow up. College was a definite route to go, but I really didn’t expect to actually major in Pre-Med in college until I started taking medical classes with Jason Drake and Jim Orcutt. They broadened my horizon and helped me figure out my potential. Lastly, one of my biggest contributor and supporter for my interest in medicine is Mary Lynn Horst. She never once gave up on me and refused to let me drop anatomy and physiology because she knew that I could do it.

No matter where I go and who I’ll end up meeting, NPHS will always have a special place in my heart. I’ve loved every single second of it, no matter how much I’ve trashed-talked this place. To my close friends, keep touch and always aim high. To my teachers, thank you for somewhat keeping me sane these past few years and tending to my moody days. To my parents, thank you for not letting me drop out of school. It’s been a heck of a ride, but life will keep going on. This is Princess Saguban, and I’m signing off with my final newspaper story.