June 10, 2024
Three years ago, I entered LHS for the first time at freshman orientation. I was a sophomore, but because I was a transfer student, the school encouraged me to attend. I remember assistant principal Mr. Venezia giving a speech about the next few years and how important it was for students to make the most of high school.
It was my first time back in school since the COVID-19 lockdown, and everyone was still wearing masks. Meeting new people without ever fully seeing their faces, I learned to acknowledge eye contact and positive body language as signs that someone was approachable. I remember feeling excited and nervous to begin high school, but I would have never guessed where this adventure would take me.
Coming into LHS, my main goals were to meet new people and broaden my horizons, so I set out to join clubs and organizations. I found my love for debate in the Mock Trial Club, which also helped me develop important skills such as dressing professionally, forming questions, reading in front of a crowd and speaking publicly. I also found meaningful communities in the Future Business Leaders of America Club, National Honor Society and Wonder Girls Club.
There is an adage that the people make a school, and that is certainly true of LHS. The teachers enliven their classrooms with an energy I had never seen before, making LHS an amazing place.
Sophomore year, I was lucky enough to take two great classes, English II Honors with Ms. Pastor and U.S. History I Honors with Mr. Tessalone. Both Ms. Pastor and Mr. Tessalone are so dedicated and teach with passion for their subjects. They go out of their way to motivate students and offer assistance to make sure their students produce work they are proud of.
There is an adage that the people make a school, and that is certainly true of LHS. The teachers enliven their classrooms with an energy I had never before seen, making LHS an amazing place.
I knew I wanted to continue being taught by them, so junior year I enrolled in Ms. Pastor’s journalism elective and Mr. Tessalone’s Advanced Placement U.S. History course. After taking their classes, I feel prepared for college and life.
My advice for underclassmen would be to challenge yourself and take a variety of classes. You never know where they will lead you or what subjects might spark your interest.I am so thankful for everyone I have met at LHS and the education I received. In the fall, I will be studying psychology at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, and, while I’ll soon be a proud Hokie, I will always remember my time as a Golden Bear and all it taught me.
