June 8, 2026
Walking into high school as a freshman, I knew I wanted to build a name for myself and make a positive impact. Serving as class president, vice president of the Future Business Leaders of America Club, president of the Wonder Girls Club and so much more, I did just that.
During my time at LHS, some of my most unexpected decisions have been my best. For example, I switched from participating in varsity softball to varsity outdoor track and field in my sophomore year. Although the transition was difficult, the decision created new possibilities for success, such as becoming a three-time State Sectional Champion in shot put.
I’m used to hearing “You’re always so busy” and being asked, “What do you not do?” but that’s exactly how I wanted it. I joined as many clubs, extracurricular activities and sports as possible.
Even though I lacked journalism experience, my eighth-grade English teacher, Mrs. Maloupis, recommended me for The Lighthouse. I never thought it would become such a huge part of my life, but this is what my high school years have been all about: the unexpected.
During my time at LHS, some of my most unexpected decisions have been my best.
I would like to thank The Lighthouse adviser Ms. Pastor. She introduced me to a new field of study and inspired me to major in journalism at Pennsylvania State University in University Park. From encouraging her students to memorize the First Amendment to providing lessons about writing and proofreading in journalism and English II Honors, she has been an excellent educator.
I’m also thankful for the support I received from Mrs. Auteri and Mrs. Silvelo, who advise multiple clubs and organizations I’m part of. Their advice and mentorship taught me lessons I will carry with me forever.
If there’s one thing these four years have taught me, it’s to say “yes” — to challenges, to opportunities and to the unknown, because the moments I least expected shaped me the most.
So, this isn’t a goodbye, but a promise that I will keep chasing more, doing more and becoming more. The Lighthouse didn’t just give me a voice. It helped me discover who I am.
While this may be my last article for The Lighthouse, it’s only the beginning of all that I have left to create, write and share.
