June 8, 2024
What stands out to me about my time at LHS are all the wonderful people I met. Whether we shared a quick “hello” or years together, they have made my high school experience better than I ever imagined.
The people I have gotten to know through The Lighthouse are no exception.
I joined the journalism program last year, worried that I would not have the ability to write articles or contribute to the publication in any meaningful way.
Ultimately, I’m glad I challenged myself by requesting the course and becoming a staff writer. In fact, I wish I had joined earlier. I have learned so much from my time in the journalism program and loved every minute of it.
This year, I had the honor of being promoted to copy editor. Once a month, I took home a draft of the newspaper and reviewed it over the weekend. It was relaxing to sit down with music, snacks and water, grab a pen and edit. This position has strengthened my writing skills and ability to check my work.
Thank you to The Lighthouse adviser Ms. Pastor for believing in me and giving me this position. I have learned valuable academic and personal lessons from her, and I am so appreciative of her help. I will miss her class, but I will use all that she taught me in my future endeavors.
Outside of The Lighthouse, I have been part of the band, chorale, jazz band, pit orchestra, Italian Club, Lyndhurst Summer Musical, Lyndhurst Summer Music Program, National Honor Society, Peer Group Connection and Tri-M Music Honor Society.
I have been involved in the Music Department for nine years, and everyone I encountered there helped shape me into who I am today. I thank them for inspiring me and so many others. Music has become a great creative outlet for me, and now I know I want to pursue it professionally.
I also want to thank all my teachers who helped me succeed. They do not get enough credit for the dedication, energy and time they put into their work. They have taught me about their academic subjects, life and the world. I could not have accomplished so much without them.
I have learned so much from my time in the journalism program and loved every minute of it.
Next, I want to thank my friends for being amazing. They inspire me every day with their kindness, integrity and talent. I know they will all be spectacular wherever they end up.
Finally, I want to thank my parents. Their support has never wavered, and I am eternally grateful. I love them so much.
The next phase of my education will take me to Rutgers University-New Brunswick, where I will be in the Honors College.
For the next four years, I will be majoring in music performance on the clarinet. I know all the lessons I learned at LHS will help me at Rutgers, and I am so happy I got to experience high school in Lyndhurst.
