As my final year of high school comes to a close, I begin to reflect on the memorable experience that it was. The classes of 2020 and 2021 had a lot taken from them, but we must press on and move forward. My senior year and part of my junior year were far from what I expected them to be, but I am happy to now begin this new chapter of my life. 

I came to Salem as a sophomore, and was automatically excited to take journalism as it was not an option at my previous high school. I was lucky enough to get a spot in the class, unbeknownst at the time that I would gain so much more. Journalism’s community became a family to me; from the very beginning of the class I was able to make connections with the other members. I remember being so excited to interview people for my first article and construct it, and I was so shocked when I was selected to co-write it with the current editor-in-chief at the time for our printed paper.

At the end of my sophomore year, I applied for an editor position and was shocked yet again when I was asked by the current editors and Mrs. Trace if I wanted to be the assistant editor-in-chief for the following year. I gladly accepted and prepared myself for the responsibilities to come. My junior year as assistant editor-in-chief was fantastic; I had so much fun working with all the staff and moving over to the website (which came at a good time considering the pandemic.) I still am a bit heartbroken over not being able to say goodbye to much of the staff from last year, but it is what it is. 

This year felt a bit underwhelming in my role as Editor-in-Chief, as the pandemic has been a huge struggle for me personally and it was difficult to integrate into the class environment as a virtual student. I am extremely impressed however, with the dedication and talent that this year’s staff has shown. We have been able to achieve so much despite all of the extenuating circumstances, and I couldn’t be more proud of the staff. I know that the newspaper will be in good hands. 

My last week of high school will soon be ending and it definitely feels surreal. We have overcome so much this past year and a half, and I know the classes of 2020 and 2021 will be able to accomplish so much now and in the future. I will miss Salem and the community that it, and journalism especially, has given me. Journalism has presented me with so many experiences and opportunities that I am so thankful for. It is always a great day to be a SunDevil.