Four years. Four years ago, I was walking through the doors as a freshman. I did not know what to do, or even who I was. Over the past couple of years I have discovered a lot of not only who I am, but who I want to be.

It feels like just yesterday I was wandering the halls looking for my classes and trying to fit in. High school was a lot harder than the movies made it look but it was also way better in ways I did not expect. I made friends that became like family and learned lessons that I will actually take with me after graduation. I definitely would not be where I am without my teachers. I want to say a huge thank you to Mr. Hatch in the broadcast for always pushing me, and to Mrs. Roskens in newspaper for everything she did for me. Having both of you as mentors made my high school experience so much better and I am so grateful for all the time I spent in your classrooms. Some of my favorite memories are definitely all the trips we took for class. Those trips were where I really bonded with everyone, and I will never forget the fun times we had traveling together.

Leaving is weird because I spent so much time waiting for this moment, and now that it is here, I just want to slow down. I am going to miss the Friday night games and even the stressful mornings before a big test. But I know I am ready for whatever comes next because of the person I became in these hallways. Thank you to everyone who was part of my story. It has been a crazy ride, but I am so glad I got to spend it here.

– Landon Byrom

This article was edited by Emily Logan , Amelia Hamilton and Kate Duncan.