Well Seniors, we made it. Whether you’re ready or not the past four years are coming to a close and our time as Roughriders is nearly over. While I am sure some students are truly glad to be finished, and hope to never look back on this place, for many of us this has been a time in our lives we’ll remember with great positivity. We will never forget Friday nights spent at memorial stadium under the lights, the Saturday afternoons at “Rockspot,” summers on Magnuson’s beaches, and never ending early morning commutes. The bonds and friendships we have formed with so many people will remain in our hearts. But, I get it. It’s second semester, the weather is great, we’re into our colleges, what’s the point? I ask myself the same thing as my mom shakes me awake every morning, and honestly, I have struggled to find an answer. As focus and effort on assignments that have little effect on our futures plummet we are all left counting the days, and repeating over and over, “what’s the f****** point.” I have thought about that phrase extensively over the past few days, and maybe there really isn’t an “academic” point we all need to understand. However Riders, there is a reason to be more appreciative of the days were are currently living in.
In the wake of what was for many an academically difficult junior year, the desire to continue the pursuit of academic rigor and achievement is low to say the least. But before you skip another sixth period or decide not to turn in homework think twice before giving up on the foundation of “it being second semester.” For those of us going to college this is one of our last chances to truly absorb all the knowledge we can, and learn more about what our interests are and what we might want to study. While a getting a 4.0 may no longer be as important or meaningful, blowing off all academic responsibility is a risky decision that could cost you valuable knowledge not only in “subjects” but valuable knowledge about yourself. Besides, the last thing any of us want is to to be turned down in July.
What has been more valuable to me than almost anything at Roosevelt in the past four years is the friendships I have made. I have become closer with those I knew before high school while meeting several others I am proud to call my best friends. I am certain this is not something unique to myself. In a few months many of us will be leaving home for the first time, and those we have grown so close to will no longer be there. This may not be a time meant for enthusiastic learning, but it is time with our closest friends and family that should not be taken for granted.
Amidst all of the other negative comments and complaints, the one that sticks with me most is “I hate this place.” No, you don’t “hate this place.” You may be fed up with assignments, responsibility, and not being able to sleep in, but you do not hate this place. In fact, you should love this place. Yes, there are plenty of things that could use change, but we all need to be thanking our lucky stars Roosevelt is the public high school we are fortunate enough to have attended. In many regards Roosevelt is the best public high school in the city of Seattle. And just like many of my classmates, it has made me secure in my own identity, openminded about a diverse and interesting world and eager to expand my perspective and knowledge. If you can’t handle the final semester of high school, there are much larger problems to come. But until then, live in the moment and enjoy the numerous benefits and memories Roosevelt has brought into our lives.
Graphic by Kelly Shor
An appropriate sentiment well conveyed, Ira. Have fun, give and take, finish strong, and leave each place and experience better for your passing.