As the 2023 school year comes to an end, a new truth has dawned upon me — it is time to get my driver’s license. For the past eight months, my trusty upperclassmen friends have (somewhat willingly) given me rides between schools, practices, and friends’ houses. Without them, I would be left stranded on the side of the road with neither direction nor hope; literally and figuratively.
When I am forced into a tough decision, I find myself asking the same question. What would Avalon Kelly do? Due to the unforgiving nature of John Shieh’s seating chart, Avalon is forced to listen to every one of my many predicaments. Thankfully, she provides a semblance of reason and logic — a much needed counterpart to my unhinged delusion and idealism. Being friends with Avalon makes me more aware of the impact my actions have on others. Whether it be out of love or blatant exasperation, she always tells me what I need to hear. I’ve learned a lot from Avalon. With every conversation, she teaches me something new — the most memorable being the importance of humility, kindness, and self respect.
Sana Sharma might be my favorite person ever. Being friends with Sana includes late night conversations, thoughtful song requests, and a saved chat filled with countless book pages. Time after time, I have run to Sana for support, and time after time, they have provided me with a shoulder to rest on. Ready to listen and eager to learn, my most reckless chauffeur provides a space for me to be passionate. It doesn’t matter what I’m talking about, Sana is all ears.
Jacqui Mclean shows me that when there is a will there’s a way. Thinking one step ahead, she is a woman with a plan. Not only does she set goals for herself, but she understands the steps and necessities that must be taken in order to actually accomplish her dreams. It’s one thing to talk the talk, but Jacqui can walk the walk. Whatever life might throw at her, she is capable enough to make the best of her situation.
Ahra Choi has the biggest heart. Sitting next to each other in Monica Perez – Sanchez’s AP Computer Science class, we quickly developed a strong friendship. Ahra is my number one fan. No matter how terrible a situation might seem, she forces me to take a step back and change my perspective for the better. With Ahra, hope appears in the most hopeless of situations. Somehow, someway, the circumstances become better.
Safe to say, I am a proud passenger princess.