Once a Raider, Always a Raider

Sometimes you will never know the meaning of a moment until it becomes a memory. Going into high school as an incoming freshman, I was always told by upperclassmen things like “Don’t take it for granted,” “It goes by in the blink of an eye,” and more. I always brushed it off. I had four years ahead of me. Now that my high school career has come to an end, I wish I could have cherished every moment more than I ever did. 

High school came with its highs and lows, laughs and tears, excitement and fears. The person that entered NHS as a freshman will never compare to the grown, mature, and educated person I am now walking out of NHS. Besides math, science, and English education, I have learned so many life lessons throughout high school. NHS has brought me forever friendships and unforgettable memories. 

Something that will always have a special effect on my life is NHS cheer. I have been a cheerleader for over 10 years and all I dreamed about was being a varsity cheerleader for NHS. The memories I have made being a part of the program are irreplaceable. Cheer was a major part of my high school career and I will never forget some of the best times I have had on the mat with my team. 

As each year passed, I couldn't choose between all four years of high school and which was the best because they had such amazing times and memories. However, the feeling of each moment during your senior year is indescribable. As sad as it sounds, most of the events and moments throughout your senior year are the last. Last first day, last first game, last competition, last class, etc. More than any other year, I cherished every second of my final year. I knew just how special the moments were and that they only come once. It is important to remember to look around from time to time and realize how much you have to be grateful for. 

Unfortunately, COVID-19 took a lot away from my final moments as an NHS student; last times in class, walking through the hallways, even small things like that. COVID-19 also took away my senior prom and graduation, two of the most memorable times in your lifetime.

I have always been one to look on the bright side of everything, however throughout this global pandemic it has been difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Our official last day is approaching which seems meaningless because I have not been to school in over four months. I pictured the end of my senior year completely differently which saddens me.

Although high school did not end as planned, I still have no regrets. The friendships I have made, memories that I will cherish forever, and lessons I have learned will never go unnoticed. I would like to thank my teachers throughout the years from the bottom of my heart for all they have done for me inside and outside of the NHS classrooms. To my family and friends who have been there for me through thick and thin, I wouldn’t have been able to do it without you.

Once a Raider, always a Raider.