As a student graduating a year early, who has moved schools nine times across Delaware and Michigan, you’d think I have tons of advice for upcoming Stevenson graduates. Walking into Stevenson as a senior wasn’t easy. I’ve experienced many kinds of people, places and challenges that both made and broken me. While my journey is unique, I hope parts of it can help others who are navigating their own path with similar challenges. 

Throughout my life, change has been constant. Each transition brought new people, new rules, and new routines. Especially high school, where things can either make you or break you. Friends from freshman year may not last into senior year—and in my experience, may not even remember you by the end. 

After two years at Chippewa Valley, I felt a little more grounded, but still struggled to feel seen. River Rouge was completely different from Chippewa, but I found my place and worked hard to leave my mark. At Stevenson, being the “new kid” again as a senior felt overwhelming. Because by this year, everyone already has their own circles. I often questioned if making new connections was worth it, knowing I’d be gone so soon on my way to college. 

All of these changes made me feel isolated and mentally drained. Still, I kept pushing forward and realized my ability to adapt was actually one of my greatest strengths. I learned how to survive uncertainty, speak up for myself and grow through discomfort. 

To anyone going through something similar, don’t let change scare you. Feeling lost is okay—every new place is an opportunity to learn something new about yourself. Keep showing up, even when it’s hard; all of it is shaping you into someone stronger than you ever imagined.