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The Initial Letter |
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Going into the year, I'm a little wary. I’m very excited we’re starting in person, and being able to walk to class with my friends, and meeting new teachers. I'm ready for activities and events to pick up, and I can't wait to decorate and plan. But it’s the infamous junior year workload that I’m finding daunting. I’ve heard all about it, and the early phases of giving up. I don’t know whether or not I’ll even keep my current class schedule after being in class for the first day. (Update: I’ve now gone through the second day, and after talking with my counselor, it’s a no-go on changing my schedule...) But I’m going to try to overlook the small issues and just focus on the big picture, aka how it’ll benefit me in the future, or perhaps not even matter five years from now. This year, I’m going to try living by the phrase, “Give all you’ve got,” which is something I tried to come up with to encompass what I wanted my year to look like. As I said before, I already know this year will be tough. Classes will be more demanding, more challenging, and while I’m excited, I also don’t want to burnout. Because it’s a possibility, and one I want to avoid at all costs. While it seems contradictory to give it my all and not burnout, I think it’s a fine line that’ll keep me on my toes. So I’m going all in. All my dedication, perseverance, patience. My time and effort, and the willingness to try. Even when it’s a phrase of Spanish I don’t recognize right off the bat. Or a word problem I can’t immediately figure out how to solve. Or a history fact I just can’t seem to memorize. I’m promising myself that I won’t give up on anything when I still have something to give. And it applies to everything I might do. Yoga club. Planning prom. Taking the SAT. I’ll try my best, because I don’t like doing things halfway. I’d rather fail giving it my all, than to wonder if I could’ve succeeded with a little more effort.
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Favorite Quotes |
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1. “The way I see it, if you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the rain.” Dolly Parton
I apply this to academic failure, tense relationships, and life in general. Nothing will ever come easy, and if it does, it’s probably too good to be true. You have to work for what you want, and it might come with failure along the way, little mishaps that make it harder. But if you want to reach your goal, you have to work past it, because no success comes without failure. In any relationship with someone, it’s never going to be good all the time. If it is, you’ll never know how to fix a problem when it comes up. And going through the tense, tough times is what makes the relationship stronger. Adversity makes success and peace that much sweeter, and it’s an important setback that you have to learn to be okay with, if you want to grow. I know it’s taking me a while to be okay with it, but I’m learning, and progress is progress.
I apply this to academic failure, tense relationships, and life in general. Nothing will ever come easy, and if it does, it’s probably too good to be true. You have to work for what you want, and it might come with failure along the way, little mishaps that make it harder. But if you want to reach your goal, you have to work past it, because no success comes without failure. In any relationship with someone, it’s never going to be good all the time. If it is, you’ll never know how to fix a problem when it comes up. And going through the tense, tough times is what makes the relationship stronger. Adversity makes success and peace that much sweeter, and it’s an important setback that you have to learn to be okay with, if you want to grow. I know it’s taking me a while to be okay with it, but I’m learning, and progress is progress.
2. “Wherever you go, go with all your heart.” Confucius
I’m a fan of giving something my all rather than going halfway. I don’t want to live with any more regrets, nor do I want to mull over the “what ifs” when I look back on my life. So I try my best to live with all my heart. When it comes to ambition, emotions, goals, I try to give everything my all. And it’s not to the extent of not having anything left for me. It’s pursuing my goals and trying everything I can to succeed despite disaster. Expressing my emotions, even when surrounded by apathy, because you only live once, so why not? I think it’s beautiful to give something all your heart, because it’s a representation of you, and how much you’re willing to give. Much like my phrase for the year, I find it’s better to give it your all and fail, than to wonder. |
3. “Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time.” Bertrand Russell
I take this as an important reminder to take care of yourself. Doing things that make you happy is just as important, if not more so, than something that’s considered productive. You have to keep a balance of work and play, and time spent on play is still time well spent. Personally, this helps me feel more comfortable in the way I live my own life. I spend a lot of time reading and watching movies in contrast to doing my homework and studying, but I do it because it makes me happy. Even though it’s hard to take such a lax approach to my studies, being happy is more important than passing any test, and I’ve learned that the time I spend being happy isn’t a waste of time. It’s a good brain break and mental recharge. |
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Quote |
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“When there is no struggle, there is no strength.” - Oprah
This year has been filled with ups and downs, but I’ve grown from it tremendously. Without all the struggles of the year, I wouldn’t have been able to better myself, whether it was through time management, confidence, or communication. There’s always room for growth and improvement, but you’ll only find it when you’re challenged. I think it’s an important value to have and recognize, because it shows you’re willing to admit that you’re not perfect. Future students in the course need to remember that they aren’t the only ones in the room, and that this is a service-based program. Yes, there’s professional development and bonds you benefit from on an individual level, but your priority should be to guide others. It’s important to reflect on this, because you need to acknowledge that you will struggle. You won’t be walking a paved road your whole life, and it’s better to realize that sooner rather than later. It can truly make an impact by getting you into the habit of a growth mindset, which will help you succeed in your life forever.
This year has been filled with ups and downs, but I’ve grown from it tremendously. Without all the struggles of the year, I wouldn’t have been able to better myself, whether it was through time management, confidence, or communication. There’s always room for growth and improvement, but you’ll only find it when you’re challenged. I think it’s an important value to have and recognize, because it shows you’re willing to admit that you’re not perfect. Future students in the course need to remember that they aren’t the only ones in the room, and that this is a service-based program. Yes, there’s professional development and bonds you benefit from on an individual level, but your priority should be to guide others. It’s important to reflect on this, because you need to acknowledge that you will struggle. You won’t be walking a paved road your whole life, and it’s better to realize that sooner rather than later. It can truly make an impact by getting you into the habit of a growth mindset, which will help you succeed in your life forever.
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Goals |
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Leadership:
1. To develop deeper bonds with everyone in the class. I love having relationships with people, and being able to walk up to someone and just talk to them is a level of comfort I hope to have with everyone in the class. I have it with the people in my grade, and a handful outside of it, but not everyone, especially not the newer people. I know it would be a lot less awkward, and way more fun, if I did have that with everyone. It also makes it easier to ask people for help, or offer some help, when you already have that relationship established, so that’s also a big reason for this being my goal.
2. To put on a good Prom. Ever since COVID shut everything down over a year ago, nothing’s been the same. And I know that many people, including myself, want to have a proper Prom. We didn’t get to experience a full year of normal high school, let alone a formal dance other than Winter Formal, so it’s my hope that we’ll at least get the typical Prom experience before it’s too late. I would love to plan it, and make people happy by being able to put it on. I know that if we can manage it, it’ll be a blast. The memories I could make, and the money our class could make, would be very welcome.
Short Term Life:
1. Be happy with my college decision. Happiness is something I’ve had a hard time prioritizing over academic success and making others happy. And I think that at the very least, when the time comes for college, I should be able to put my happiness above anything else. I’ll actually be paying for my education by then, but also able to choose the type of life I want in college. Big city or small college town atmosphere. A large party life or more studious. A good balance of everything in between. I think finding that balance that makes me happy will be good for my future as a student and person, and it’s something I hope to achieve.
2. Make the most of my youth. I’ve heard it all the time, and I realize it’s true, but I don’t think I’ve been very good at making the most of my youth. While I’m still able-bodied, I want to go on adventures, make memories to last a lifetime, and have fun. I want to live in the moment and love what I’m doing, while I can still do it. Look back on it as an old lady and be proud of how I lived. Before it’s too late, and I have taxes and bills and hospitalizations for my broken hip, I want to live up being young.
Long Term Future:
1. Be happy with who I am. I’m lucky it’s not a daily struggle to get out of bed, but I, like everyone else, have my down days. Days where there are things I wish I could change about myself in an instant, and days where I’d do anything for that change to happen. So a big life goal of mine is to be comfortable in my own skin. Confident in who I am, what I stand for, and what I want to do with my life. And content with living authentically as me, and not some persona I put on for everyone else.
2. Love my job. I’ve heard that if you love your job, it isn’t work, and that’s my goal. I know that if you love something, it makes doing it much easier, so I’d at least like to enjoy my job. I know that it won't always be possible, because there are no ups without downs, but to overall enjoy what I do for a living would be exciting. It would mean looking forward to going to work, and being content with whatever I’m doing. I would be making money and having fun, which is a win-win, and something I think would be a good balance. Sure, I’d also like to make enough money for comfortable living, but if I could also be happy to an extent, that’s the best of both worlds.
1. To develop deeper bonds with everyone in the class. I love having relationships with people, and being able to walk up to someone and just talk to them is a level of comfort I hope to have with everyone in the class. I have it with the people in my grade, and a handful outside of it, but not everyone, especially not the newer people. I know it would be a lot less awkward, and way more fun, if I did have that with everyone. It also makes it easier to ask people for help, or offer some help, when you already have that relationship established, so that’s also a big reason for this being my goal.
2. To put on a good Prom. Ever since COVID shut everything down over a year ago, nothing’s been the same. And I know that many people, including myself, want to have a proper Prom. We didn’t get to experience a full year of normal high school, let alone a formal dance other than Winter Formal, so it’s my hope that we’ll at least get the typical Prom experience before it’s too late. I would love to plan it, and make people happy by being able to put it on. I know that if we can manage it, it’ll be a blast. The memories I could make, and the money our class could make, would be very welcome.
Short Term Life:
1. Be happy with my college decision. Happiness is something I’ve had a hard time prioritizing over academic success and making others happy. And I think that at the very least, when the time comes for college, I should be able to put my happiness above anything else. I’ll actually be paying for my education by then, but also able to choose the type of life I want in college. Big city or small college town atmosphere. A large party life or more studious. A good balance of everything in between. I think finding that balance that makes me happy will be good for my future as a student and person, and it’s something I hope to achieve.
2. Make the most of my youth. I’ve heard it all the time, and I realize it’s true, but I don’t think I’ve been very good at making the most of my youth. While I’m still able-bodied, I want to go on adventures, make memories to last a lifetime, and have fun. I want to live in the moment and love what I’m doing, while I can still do it. Look back on it as an old lady and be proud of how I lived. Before it’s too late, and I have taxes and bills and hospitalizations for my broken hip, I want to live up being young.
Long Term Future:
1. Be happy with who I am. I’m lucky it’s not a daily struggle to get out of bed, but I, like everyone else, have my down days. Days where there are things I wish I could change about myself in an instant, and days where I’d do anything for that change to happen. So a big life goal of mine is to be comfortable in my own skin. Confident in who I am, what I stand for, and what I want to do with my life. And content with living authentically as me, and not some persona I put on for everyone else.
2. Love my job. I’ve heard that if you love your job, it isn’t work, and that’s my goal. I know that if you love something, it makes doing it much easier, so I’d at least like to enjoy my job. I know that it won't always be possible, because there are no ups without downs, but to overall enjoy what I do for a living would be exciting. It would mean looking forward to going to work, and being content with whatever I’m doing. I would be making money and having fun, which is a win-win, and something I think would be a good balance. Sure, I’d also like to make enough money for comfortable living, but if I could also be happy to an extent, that’s the best of both worlds.
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Goal Reflection |
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Leadership
1. To develop deeper bonds: I think I've accomplished this for sure. Last year, I really regretted not being able to do this as well as I hoped, and I made a point of doing it this year. I've gotten closer to the people both inside and outside of my grade, instead of just talking to Kenz and Gracie. I love having these bonds too, because it makes me feel like I'm closer to everyone. I also enjoy hearing all their stories and knowing more about them.
2. Put on a good Prom: This one is on its way to being achieved, because Prom actually hasn't happened yet. However, it's supposed to happen in a couple of weeks, and I think it'll be great. Everything is going as planned, and I can't wait to see what everyone thinks. We're midway through ticket sales right now, and attendance seems like it'll be great too, so I hope it's a successful event, both monetarily and socially.
Short Term Life
1. Be happy with my college decision: I'm on my way to completing this one as well, but I'm so scared about it. College admissions this past year sounded pretty rough, which is why I'm trying my best to stay positive. One of my biggest fears is that I'll commit to something I only like in theory and not in practice. I have to take my own advice though, and trust in myself. I know that I'll make sure it all works out in the end, because that's the type of person my parents raised.
2. Make the most of my youth: This year has been a bit rough with accomplishing this goal, because I feel like I'm sacrificing my childhood for the sake of my future. Regardless, I wouldn't change what I've done. It's interesting to reflect on though, because I do think setting myself up for success is making the most of my youth. I'm not throwing away the chances I can create for myself in the present moment. I am losing some in the process, but it's a balancing game.
Long Term Life
1. Be happy with who I am: While I know I'm not, nor will I ever be, anywhere near perfect, I'm actually on track to completing this goal. This year has taught me a lot about myself and the values I hold in life, and I'm actually proud of how much I've grown. If I keep this up, I definitely see myself living a life where I'm happy with the person I've become and the decisions I've made.
2. Love my job: I have to settle on a job before loving it, but I think I'll be living the life of a woman in STEM, which will only be unfortunate if I make it unfortunate. As long as I maintain a positive growth mindset, I should accomplish this goal without a shadow of a doubt. The biggest issue I anticipate from this goal is the male-dominated fields, but it'll be fine. I didn't learn how to hold my own for nothing.
1. To develop deeper bonds: I think I've accomplished this for sure. Last year, I really regretted not being able to do this as well as I hoped, and I made a point of doing it this year. I've gotten closer to the people both inside and outside of my grade, instead of just talking to Kenz and Gracie. I love having these bonds too, because it makes me feel like I'm closer to everyone. I also enjoy hearing all their stories and knowing more about them.
2. Put on a good Prom: This one is on its way to being achieved, because Prom actually hasn't happened yet. However, it's supposed to happen in a couple of weeks, and I think it'll be great. Everything is going as planned, and I can't wait to see what everyone thinks. We're midway through ticket sales right now, and attendance seems like it'll be great too, so I hope it's a successful event, both monetarily and socially.
Short Term Life
1. Be happy with my college decision: I'm on my way to completing this one as well, but I'm so scared about it. College admissions this past year sounded pretty rough, which is why I'm trying my best to stay positive. One of my biggest fears is that I'll commit to something I only like in theory and not in practice. I have to take my own advice though, and trust in myself. I know that I'll make sure it all works out in the end, because that's the type of person my parents raised.
2. Make the most of my youth: This year has been a bit rough with accomplishing this goal, because I feel like I'm sacrificing my childhood for the sake of my future. Regardless, I wouldn't change what I've done. It's interesting to reflect on though, because I do think setting myself up for success is making the most of my youth. I'm not throwing away the chances I can create for myself in the present moment. I am losing some in the process, but it's a balancing game.
Long Term Life
1. Be happy with who I am: While I know I'm not, nor will I ever be, anywhere near perfect, I'm actually on track to completing this goal. This year has taught me a lot about myself and the values I hold in life, and I'm actually proud of how much I've grown. If I keep this up, I definitely see myself living a life where I'm happy with the person I've become and the decisions I've made.
2. Love my job: I have to settle on a job before loving it, but I think I'll be living the life of a woman in STEM, which will only be unfortunate if I make it unfortunate. As long as I maintain a positive growth mindset, I should accomplish this goal without a shadow of a doubt. The biggest issue I anticipate from this goal is the male-dominated fields, but it'll be fine. I didn't learn how to hold my own for nothing.
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Magazine Cover & Article |
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We interviewed “The Girl Who Gave Back,” April Yan, as she came back to her hometown and finished the project of a lifetime. Yan graduated from her small California school, Ripon High, in 2023, and many thought she would never look back. She was adamant on living the big city life, and travelling the world with her career. However, the small town charm must’ve brought her back, because after years stabilizing her career, Yan came back to Ripon with one goal on her mind: bringing change to her old high school. As a student, Yan knew she wanted change, but she didn’t have the means nor the support to do so.
Her focuses were lockers, the library, and more bathrooms. She explained, “One of the biggest wishes I had as a student was lockers. I wanted that personal space, and the chance to decorate and slip notes in my friends’ lockers.” We’d have to agree, lockers are a fun part of the high school experience. “As far as the library goes, I was, and still am, a huge bookworm,” she gushed. “If it had multiple levels and little alcoves to read while I was attending, I probably never would’ve left the building.” When we asked about the bathrooms, Yan let out a laugh. “I know it’s such a small high school, but having a grand total of four bathrooms on campus was such a struggle as a student. It was a game of biding your time and knowing which teachers would let you go during class.” So after college, and years of building a reputation, financial stability, and credit, Yan decided to propose a plan to revamp Ripon High. |
“It was kind of selfish of me, if I’m being honest,” Yan laughed. “I wanted to create a high school I would’ve appreciated as a student. But I think this will be a good change.” Yan had plans drawn up quickly, and held meeting after meeting until she saw her project come to life. “I made sure to get outside input,” Yan reassured. “I didn’t want to come in, like some strange bigshot developer, and tell everyone I was going to do this, and no one could stop me. With how Ripon is, I don’t think I could’ve done that anyway.”
After getting community approval, it was only a matter of time before Yan’s vision was complete. Miraculously, the grand reopening fell just a few days prior to the first day of school, and you could see kids rush excitedly as they tried to memorize the campus. We sat down with Yan for one last question before the day was over, asking her if she had any regrets about her project. “Honestly, I don’t,” she started. “I’m glad to give back to a community that shaped my life, and I only hope this change helps create a safer, more inclusive atmosphere for students to learn.” We couldn’t have said it better.
After getting community approval, it was only a matter of time before Yan’s vision was complete. Miraculously, the grand reopening fell just a few days prior to the first day of school, and you could see kids rush excitedly as they tried to memorize the campus. We sat down with Yan for one last question before the day was over, asking her if she had any regrets about her project. “Honestly, I don’t,” she started. “I’m glad to give back to a community that shaped my life, and I only hope this change helps create a safer, more inclusive atmosphere for students to learn.” We couldn’t have said it better.
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Role Model |
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One of the biggest role models in my life is Van Vuren. This is my second year having her as a teacher, and I’m never bored in her class. She’s a great, funny teacher, which I really need for science, because I can easily get confused. Van Vuren is someone I can confide in, whether it’s about stress, what’s going on in my life, or even things as trivial as boys. I trust her judgement and I know I can always go to her for advice. She’s so scarily smart too, and has even helped me with my math homework, even though it’s been years since she’s done it. She has so many hobbies, from gardening to soap making, that it inspires me to set time aside for my own interests. She’s one of the most patient people I’ve met, and never fails to make me laugh with her dad jokes. I admire how she’s still so patient and understanding with all the stress piled on from her night classes, and I strive to be more like her.
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Inner Animal |
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This year, I think my inner animal has been a deer. They can adapt to many different types of habitats, and are considered to be gentle creatures, mindful of their surroundings, and possessing a capacity for unconditional love. Junior year especially has forced me to adapt, with the workload and growing worry about college. Even during Homecoming, there was a lot of adapting, as some stuff didn’t come in time, and schedules had to be balanced. While I’m not perfect at it, I’d say my adaptability is reliable, and I’m ready to change when the situation arises. I've always seen myself as a nurturing person, and get called the “mom friend” more times than I can count. I attribute it to the gentle side of my personality, and my awareness of others. I try my best to accommodate and support the people around me, and make everyone feel heard. While not unconditional, because I do have my limits, I love the people in my life very strongly, even when they get on my nerves. They could do anything short of murdering someone and I’d still love them.
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Friends & Family |
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Song Representing Me |
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“Almost There” from The Princess and the Frog
Mama! I don't have time for dancing! That's just gonna have to wait a while Ain't got time for messing around And it's not my style This old town can slow you down People taking the easy way But I know exactly where I'm going I'm getting closer and closer every day And I'm almost there I'm almost there People down here think I'm crazy But I don't care Trials and tribulations I've had my share There ain't nothing gonna stop me now 'Cause I'm almost there I remember Daddy told me "Fairytales can come true You gotta make 'em happen It all depends on you" So I work real hard each and every day Now things for sure are going my way Just doing what I do Look out boys, I'm coming through And I'm almost there I'm almost there People gonna come here from everywhere And I'm almost there I'm almost there There’s been trials and tribulations You know I’ve had my share But I’ve climbed the mountain I’ve crossed the river And I’m almost there I’m almost there I’m almost there! |
While I’ve never had to go through the same issues that Tiana faced in the Disney movie, The Princess and the Frog, I think I have a similar determination to see my dreams through. I want to grow and be successful by my standards, even if people don’t see the same value in it, or don’t believe in me. Recently, my day-to-day life has just been getting through things one step at a time, and reminding myself that it puts me one step closer to accomplishing my goals. I strive to remember, like Tiana, that everything I do in the present will set the tone for my future. I can't take the easy way out because I know that giving it my all will pay off in the long run. If I give up now, all I’ll be is “almost there,” whereas I could keep working hard and eventually see myself living the life I hope to have.
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Homecoming 2021 |
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Best Leadership Memories |
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Core Camp: I was sick leading up to Core Camp, having recently gotten my second vaccine dose. Despite the itch to go straight off the bat, even while I felt like a zombie, I was only able to attend my first and last day of core. But it was one of the best days of the year. I got to see everyone again, and meet a bunch of new people entering the program. I remember taking a chance and sitting next to some random girl, who I would learn was Claire, an avid reader, just like me. I hit it off with a bunch of the freshies, and we talked about books for a good while. I miss that atmosphere, because it was so pure, positive, and hopeful for the year. And while I think it’s still lingering beneath the surface of stress, I can’t wait for when it all starts coming back.
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Christmas Trees: I love Christmas so much, primarily because of the decorations. So doing a tree for a class competition was absolutely one of my favorite moments. Sure, we went through some hiccups with our tree designs, seeing as the freshies ended up doing the Grinch theme we wanted, but I think it all worked out. It required a bit of DIY on my part, and some interesting tree transportation, but I would do it all over again. It was a fun morning despite it being so early, and we finally got an officer picture out of it! And I truly loved decorating that tree. I adored how whimsical and slightly chaotic it was, because it just screamed the junior class. Scattered candy canes, peppermints, a whole barrage of red and white. A little all over the place, but ultimately together.
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Hoco Parade: Homecoming was one of the worst and best weeks of my life. The stress was unparalleled, and the lack of sleep made me look like a corpse. But I loved it. The driving back and forth, and all the gas it required, was quite unfortunate, but an evil I didn’t care enough to consider at the time. But when the float, our pride and joy, got first place, the whole week was worth it. The day of the parade was chaotic, with barely remembering a fire extinguisher, and hurriedly fixing the balloons. But when all was said and done, and we were showing off our hard work, I was so proud of everyone. We had a few juniors outside of Leadership that walked with us, and it made everything ten times better. The week was coming to an end, we had a successful parade, and even managed to evade last place in the final standings. It was a win for the juniors in my heart.
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Peer Reflection |
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Bryan is the heart of this program, and I have no idea what we’ll do when he’s gone. I have no idea what I’ll do. He’s always there to answer questions, and offer input and guidance. I always see him roaming around the classroom, checking in with everyone he can. He’s definitely one of the most genuine, kindhearted people I know, and I suspect no one I ever meet will be quite like him. There’s no single moment you can pinpoint with Bryan because he’s always so helpful. Before school, during class, during events. He’s helped me with more than Leadership, giving me advice on my classes, and advice for the future. Just recently, Bryan helped me with APUSH, and figuring out how to study best. He also has a never ending supply of tips for prepping for senior year. Whether he knows it or not, anyone can see that Bryan looks out for everyone, always ready with a quippy remark and things he’s learned throughout the years.
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RHS Pride |
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What I Love To Do |
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I’ve always loved reading and writing, because while I consider myself a math person, there’s something special about creating a world or reading about one. Reading and writing were things my mom taught me from an early age, so I would be ahead of the game in school. It went from something I used to hate to one of my greatest passions. I love getting lost in a book at any hour of the day, and sometimes I even enjoy it more than sleeping. However, sleeping is still one of my favorite things to do. The process of curling up under a blanket and falling asleep brings me peace and makes me feel at home. I also like doing puzzles, and especially games like Wordle, Sudoku, and Minesweeper. I’m not afraid to embrace my nerdy side. Something I’ve left behind is playing my flute or the piano, but it’s something I remember fondly. Creating music is special in the same sense as writing a book, because it’s something unique to you. When I want to be outside, I like hiking with my family. I could also binge crime shows for the rest of my life, along with rom-com movies. The difference between the two is astounding, but both appeal to me, whether it's through the challenge of solving a crime, or the excitement when a love interest is introduced.
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Letter to Parents |
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Mom and Dad,
You’ve raised me to be independent and to advocate for myself, even if it’s led to us getting into fights. You taught me to follow my dreams, as long as they were reasonable, and that’s what I’ve worked for ever since. You taught me the value in getting ahead of the game, but staying down-to-earth. No one likes a braggart. And most funnily, you taught me the importance of sharing and caring, but you don’t know how I came to be so in touch with my emotions. You raised an overachiever, and I have a lot to thank you for. While you shaped my need for academic success, even at the cost of my sanity, it’s helped me accomplish my goals. I push myself as much as I can, losing sleep and forgetting to eat, but getting the grades I desire. I work smarter, not harder, and I’ve learned to manage my time. I love to keep busy now, going from one thing to the next, and I think it’ll help me stay successful in college, too. I try to set my future self up for success, but I couldn’t have done it without you, your parenting, or everything you’ve given me. Even for leadership alone, you’ve allowed me to have people over late into the night, you allowed me to bring a shopping cart home, and you’re as understanding as you know how to be. Sure, sometimes I need more freedom from you, but I know you do what you do because you care about my well-being, and I’m forever grateful.
You’ve raised me to be independent and to advocate for myself, even if it’s led to us getting into fights. You taught me to follow my dreams, as long as they were reasonable, and that’s what I’ve worked for ever since. You taught me the value in getting ahead of the game, but staying down-to-earth. No one likes a braggart. And most funnily, you taught me the importance of sharing and caring, but you don’t know how I came to be so in touch with my emotions. You raised an overachiever, and I have a lot to thank you for. While you shaped my need for academic success, even at the cost of my sanity, it’s helped me accomplish my goals. I push myself as much as I can, losing sleep and forgetting to eat, but getting the grades I desire. I work smarter, not harder, and I’ve learned to manage my time. I love to keep busy now, going from one thing to the next, and I think it’ll help me stay successful in college, too. I try to set my future self up for success, but I couldn’t have done it without you, your parenting, or everything you’ve given me. Even for leadership alone, you’ve allowed me to have people over late into the night, you allowed me to bring a shopping cart home, and you’re as understanding as you know how to be. Sure, sometimes I need more freedom from you, but I know you do what you do because you care about my well-being, and I’m forever grateful.
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The Letter |
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Dear Devin,
To be completely honest and upfront, junior year will take a lot out of you. I imagine you’ll take similar classes to what I’m currently taking, so do NOT underestimate how much work you'll receive. It’s a lot. With the harder course load, more life responsibilities, and higher expectations, you can’t drop the ball. A lot of people will be depending on you, especially your president during events like Homecoming and Prom. Plan very far in advance and extremely carefully. Talk and communicate all the time, because you’ll never know when you’ll have to step in at the drop of a hat. While it’s good to hope for the best, always prepare for the worst. In the world we live in, circumstances are always changing. Take note of everything, take pictures of everything, and always stay on top of putting events in your calendar. Something we did was plan Prom very far in advance because we knew that the end of the year always gets hectic. Also keep in mind that you have Dude Be Nice to take care of as well, because we didn’t find out until much closer to the event. You will also always have an event coming up, moving from Homecoming to Dude Be Nice to Winterfest and Prom. As a VP, there’s also the Blanket Drive, as you know. While I’m not sure it’s happening next year, you’ve got to stay on top of it. You have to stay on top of it all, and make sure that Kylee doesn’t overwork herself. I still struggled with that when it came to my own president, so you have to take the extra step and make sure Kylee knows she can trust you. A lot of things will happen next year even outside of Leadership, and you need to remember that excuses are not okay. It’s up to you, your time management, and your integrity to get you through the year. As an upperclassman, you’ll be a role model, so try not to let anyone down. One of my biggest pieces of advice is to be kind and take the time to answer people’s questions. The world doesn’t revolve around you, and there will always be someone to help. Make the effort.
To be completely honest and upfront, junior year will take a lot out of you. I imagine you’ll take similar classes to what I’m currently taking, so do NOT underestimate how much work you'll receive. It’s a lot. With the harder course load, more life responsibilities, and higher expectations, you can’t drop the ball. A lot of people will be depending on you, especially your president during events like Homecoming and Prom. Plan very far in advance and extremely carefully. Talk and communicate all the time, because you’ll never know when you’ll have to step in at the drop of a hat. While it’s good to hope for the best, always prepare for the worst. In the world we live in, circumstances are always changing. Take note of everything, take pictures of everything, and always stay on top of putting events in your calendar. Something we did was plan Prom very far in advance because we knew that the end of the year always gets hectic. Also keep in mind that you have Dude Be Nice to take care of as well, because we didn’t find out until much closer to the event. You will also always have an event coming up, moving from Homecoming to Dude Be Nice to Winterfest and Prom. As a VP, there’s also the Blanket Drive, as you know. While I’m not sure it’s happening next year, you’ve got to stay on top of it. You have to stay on top of it all, and make sure that Kylee doesn’t overwork herself. I still struggled with that when it came to my own president, so you have to take the extra step and make sure Kylee knows she can trust you. A lot of things will happen next year even outside of Leadership, and you need to remember that excuses are not okay. It’s up to you, your time management, and your integrity to get you through the year. As an upperclassman, you’ll be a role model, so try not to let anyone down. One of my biggest pieces of advice is to be kind and take the time to answer people’s questions. The world doesn’t revolve around you, and there will always be someone to help. Make the effort.
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Do's and Don'ts |
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Do:
Don’t:
- Plan far in advance
- Communicate with everyone
- Take pictures
- Save all your paperwork
- Be authentic, organized, and accountable
Don’t:
- Procrastinate ANYTHING
- Try to do everything yourself
- Come up with excuses
- Blame other people
- Take credit for something you didn’t do
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Contact List |
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Mr. Mayfield
(advisor)
(209) 204 1943
Leon
(Float Donor)
(209) 326 3472
DJ Chris
(Prom DJ)
(916) 764 7335
Jennifer
(Prom Decorator)
(209) 402 0158
(advisor)
(209) 204 1943
Leon
(Float Donor)
(209) 326 3472
DJ Chris
(Prom DJ)
(916) 764 7335
Jennifer
(Prom Decorator)
(209) 402 0158
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The Professional |
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One of the best professional aspects this program offers has to be the interviews when you reapply. You know that you have to be on your A-game, because even if you interview with people you know, your future in the program is on the line. It taught me how to prepare for an interview, and how to deal with pressure in the moment. You have to know everything about the job you apply for, and make sure that you convey that you’re the best candidate. Even though I was running unopposed, nothing is ever set in stone. It’s also a great learning experience about how you present yourself, which has to be confidently. Another great professional aspect is the resumes that we learn to craft. It’s helped me keep track of the work I’ve done in high school, and it helped when I applied to the job I currently hold. Having that knowledge is great preparation for the real-world, and learning all about the format, color, and content is the invaluable advice you learn along the way.
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Change |
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So far this year, I’ve led with heart and soul. I’ve thrown everything I have into this program and my school life as a whole, and I think it’s already paying off. I adapted to the roles I needed to be, whether it was a choreographer, an engineer, a chauffeur, a mother, or our class president for that week Kenz was gone. I’ve been what this program, and my class, needed me to be, and I loved every second of it. Sure there have been ups and downs, and mental breakdowns along the way, but one of the biggest things I learned about being a leader this year was how to pick the pieces up. Ultimately, for as much as I love my friends and family with literally all my heart, I am the only person that will always be with me, so I better know how to fix myself. I get frustrated just like everyone else, but I think you have to make the choice between getting upset over it and brushing it off to focus on the positive. It’s all about your mindset, and whether or not you’ll lose yourself to those negative emotions, which is something I think I did a good job of fending off this year. It’s a problem that occurs in this class all the time though, and I have succumbed to it before. We get lost in the negativity of the student body, and the tense environment that is created with class competitions. We get lost during election season, and especially during Homecoming. It’s something that has to be changed on the individual level before the class can change, and it’s all about mindset. Something the class can implement though, is more bonding time to make that change easier. I don't know if that would be more outside of class events, like sleepovers at someone's house, or just a class period here and there to pull out games and have fun with each other. There's not a lot of downtime, or time in general, for that to happen, but it could be nice.
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Ideal Leader |
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An ideal leader is someone who knows how to balance work and play. There’s a fine line to tread between the two, and it’s important to know when enough is enough. An ideal leader is also confident, firm, and diligent, while still being kind. A leader has to be willing to receive criticism, and realize that they are not perfect. It’s unacceptable for a leader to boss people around and refuse to do any of the work themselves. A true leader has to be willing to do whatever task they assign someone else. To ensure that events run successfully, a leader must also plan accordingly, and prepare for all possible situations. It goes without saying that an ideal leader would carry their diligence into homework as well, staying on top of all of their assignments and tests. Their grades can’t fall, because academics are also a valuable part of the balance kept as a leader.
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You |
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My Projects |
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