June 3, 2026
I still recall reading “Clap When You Land” by Elizabeth Acevedo and “Patron Saints of Nothing” by Randy Ribay, the required summer reading before taking English II Honors. I was extremely intimidated by the Honors Program, but once I was immersed in the supportive environment of Ms. Pastor’s classroom, I knew I was in the right place.
During the third marking period of 10th grade, I selected journalism as an elective for the following school year. That September, I joined The Lighthouse staff and fell in love with the program, which allowed me to meet new people, explore new topics and enhance my writing skills.
My time in high school taught me about the necessity of taking risks and being brave.
This year, I returned to The Lighthouse as an editor, empowering me to create bonds with a group of talented freshmen — Bruce Bartlett, Kapri Del Regno, Isa Estrella, Chloe Lin, Eva Shrestha and Aubrey Valente — who I am confident will excel in their upcoming years at LHS. Surrounding myself with these driven students has motivated me to do my best.
My time in high school taught me about the necessity of taking risks and being brave. I learned that, even though it can be intimidating, it is important to get involved.
Now, I look ahead to the next chapter of my life as a member of the Honors Program at Ramapo College of New Jersey in Mahwah, where I will prepare for a career in nursing and apply the communication skills I learned in journalism to ensure my patients feel cared for and understood.
Just like my early days in English II Honors and journalism, I will be stepping out of my comfort zone, and I could not be more excited for the adventures ahead.
