By Faith Gonia
“OMG! It’s Owen!” I exclaim as the door to Room 58 swings open. Sure enough, with a trombone in his hand and a smile on his face, Owen Andersen walks in at 8 a.m.—right on schedule. Even though the senior has not missed a single day of school all year, I am relieved he’s here. A day without Owen would be a day without one of the most inspirational people I know.
I got to know Owen through a weekly hiking group last summer; thereafter, I quickly understood what made the future Homecoming Court member so popular—he is not only a modern-Shakespeare, but also incredibly kind. On each hike Owen attended, he discussed serious topics with immense expertise, and demonstrated mastery of PhD-level diction. While nearly a year has passed since the beginning of our friendship, Owen’s boundless wisdom has never stopped inspiring me. To be completely transparent, I think I learn at least three new words every time I speak to him.
Beyond our hiking conversations, Owen remains an inspiration for everyone around him. Just ask anybody in second period Street Law. A reliable participator, Owen never fears raising his hand and making contributions to discussions.
“Owen inspires me every day to be the best educator I can be,” renowned Street Law/AP Government teacher, Eric Buran, explains. Buran adds, “he always keeps me on my toes and brings levity to the situation. O doth Owen.”
Furthermore, senior Olivia D’Antona, a friend of Owen since sixth grade, can attest to Buran’s appraisal of the witty student. “Owen inspires me not to take life so seriously,” she says with a smile.
Truly, Owen’s knack for making people smile sets him apart. With an infectious laugh, Owen can change the mood of a room for the better. I cannot count the number of times that I have found myself in tears over one of his jokes. Simply put, Owen inspires joy.
Owen has the punctuality of an early bird, the sageness of a college professor, and the humor of a world-class comedian. Without a doubt, Owen inspires me every day.