For the past four years of my life, I have walked out of room C102 knowing that I’d be back again. Today, I walked out of said room with the understanding that it would be for the last time. 

It’s a bittersweet feeling. Starting a new chapter of my life while consequently leaving behind one of the greatest opportunities I’ve ever had is indescribable. But I’m going to attempt to put it into words anyway. 

I signed up for Journalism my freshman year solely because of my passion for writing. I walked into class for the very first day, picked a random seat, and could immediately sense that I belonged there. From the beginning, there was something about Wingspan that further brought out who I truly was. Wingspan provided me with a voice. And being in Wingspan allowed me to provide others with a voice. The number of stories, perspectives, and people that I’ve gotten to witness through this program is truly amazing. There’s something so rewarding about being a journalist. Whether it’s keeping the community up to date or retelling a wonder story, reporting the truth and honoring the merit of said events is truly the core of being a journalist. I pride myself in knowing that I had a part in that. 

Additionally, when I think back to my journalism and newspaper classes, the amount of memories that come flooding back is insane. From being a part of the notorious couch sitters to complaining about my imminent stats tests to avidly and aggressively playing the flag game with my friends and Mr. Higgins, C102 has really seen it all. In a way, it feels as if the room has grown along with me. I see a different version of myself in different parts of the room: a truly out of body experience. 

That being said, I owe a huge thank you to Mr. Higgins. Thank you for putting your trust in me as an editor. Thank you for letting me write my own column. And thank you for letting me express myself. Thank you. 

Joining journalism was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and I could not be more appreciative of the opportunities it’s provided me with. After being in Wingspan for the entirety of my high school career, I’ve seen the way Mr. Higgins brings out the best in people and am not surprised in any regard by what we’re all able to accomplish together. And so, I want to say a huge thank you to my fellow editors. You all are so talented and I’m glad to have gotten to work with you guys these past years. It’s truly been a pleasure. 

Now as I sit here, finishing this ode to Wingspan, the realization hits me. This is the last time that I will ever write anything for Wingspan. The last piece of me that I get to leave behind. No more late-night posting, finding people for interviewing, or last minute article writing. It’s unbelievable. However, with that, I’m very excited to move onto new journeys and experiences. I’m so genuinely thankful for everything that I’ve learned in the past and cannot wait to apply it to my future. 

Although bidding farewell feels like one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do, I’m grateful to have had something that makes saying goodbye so incredibly difficult. But in all honesty, I doubt that I’ll ever be able to fully let go of this part of me. So, knowing that I’ll never truly have to bid farewell to Wingspan, I say goodbye. 

Sincerely and simply,
Shreya