Valdez Heads to South Carolina

The rooms throughout the house are emptied of what used to be, while the boxes are stacked in the corner, filled to the brim. Footsteps descend out of each room, leaving behind the memories that were made there. The hands that packed these boxes and made those memories belong to Emma Valdez, a sophomore who has left what had become her home to pursue a new start that awaits her in Bluffton, South Carolina. Besides leaving behind memories and friends, she has also left the girls’ basketball team, which she’s learned to call her family.

Valdez felt anxious as the date for her move grew closer. “I’m nervous moving in the middle of the year, as I’m automatically up for being in the spotlight,” said Valdez. Along with the obvious stress  that comes with an out-of-state move, she still tried to take a peek into the positive opportunities this could give her. “A little part of me is attempting to be excited because it’s somewhere new. South Carolina can give me an opportunity to meet new people, see new things and take advantage of new opportunities that may be presented,” Valdez said.

Even with the mixed emotions during the moving process, it was still inevitable for Valdez to let the sad ones creep in. “When packing sentimental items or photos, I feel like I’m packing my life up one-by-one,” Valdez said.  She's packed up many pictures of her with friends and family that hold special places in her heart.

Alongside personal struggles Valdez had with the moving process, her basketball team has also felt the blow of her absence, as Tuesday night, Dec 17th, 2024, the girls’ basketball team played Mount St. Dominic, and Valdez played a huge part in the victory, scoring seven points. Now without her, the team may see some struggles in their future. 

Valdez's teammates also voiced their dismay with her leaving, especially one of her long-term friends, Sophomore Grace Jeong. “It hurts honestly. I won't have anyone to practice with or talk to in basketball. She’s also a friend I've had since elementary school; it'll be hard to not see her and laugh with her everyday now,” said Jeong.

As Valdez prepared for her departure, which took place during the winter break, many teachers, friends and family gave her farewells that she’ll cherish. They also presented her with the hope that she will fit in just fine in her new home.