In all honesty there isn’t any one senior that made a difference in my life. The reason being is, it’s more like a group.

Last year I had to stop attending speech and debate because of a broken neck and was unable to finish the season. But this year I signed back up, unaware that I would be making a new family.

After a few practices I started noticing a few familiar faces and making a bunch of new friends. And the friends I made are irreplaceable, especially the seniors. Conversations about manicures and pedicures with Angela Haun and Mrs. Ogilvie, and drinking Starbucks with Haun and Megan Wilson are memories that will stay with me forever. And Marissa Black was always there to either cheer me on or keep my spirits up while I failed miserably in a round.

I also met a great guy this year, which I found to be a wonderful friend. That young man is Jyo Sinha. He is one of the kindest people I have ever met. I remember a time in winter he and his mother saw me walking home and offered me a ride. It may seem like a small gesture, but it made a big impact.

However the memory that I will cherish forever is when two very sweet seniors gave the “best junior award” speech at the speech and debate banquet. They said more than they needed to, and made me sound a little better than I actually am. Thank you very much Sahiba Gill, and Rachel Bouer. The both of you made my year.

So from midnight bus rides and early mornings to grasping victory and hanging our heads in defeat, the seniors of the speech and debate team made the year unforgettable. You hold a special place in my heart and mind.