By Tyler Lau
Graduating Senior
As high school comes to an end, I’m filled with a sense of panic, wondering how the time slipped from under my watch. One year stolen from me by the pandemic. The rest, over in a split second.
You really hate school up until it’s over.
I’m a veteran school hater. First it was online school and complaining about Zooms and PE classes. Then it was band camp and long practices. Then it was complaining about chemistry, English essays and juggling activities.
Now, I complain about my senior classes being too relaxing. Now, I’m wishing that I took more time to appreciate and enjoy my time here. Because it really is over before I knew it and I really complained way too much about school.
Looking back at the past four years, I will remember my time in high school very fondly. I’ll remember the classrooms, students and teachers. I’ll remember cheering at band competitions and football games. I’ll remember the long basketball practices and the thrill of games. I’ll remember Rampage and sitting around at late nights. I’ll remember lunch times and club meetings and everything else in between. But none of it has any meaning or significance without the people and the relationships. Honestly, none of it would be rewarding or worth my time at all if it weren’t for the people. None of it is memorable without friends.
Unfortunately, this realization is my worst weakness and biggest regret. I’m very lucky to be surrounded with so many great and supportive people. I’ve taken them all for granted and I haven’t been as appreciative as I should be.
Relationships are so important. If anything, that’s what I learned here. I wish I went out of my way to meet more people and show my appreciation for others.
Although I recognize this weakness, it’s also a great strength. One of the most rewarding parts of school is mentoring and befriending underclassmen, especially through scouting and band. I’m so glad that my fellow classmates feel comfortable asking me questions and asking for advice. Whether it’s asking about exercise or gym equipment, a dap in the hallway, help on school work or advice on college, I’m so glad that someone is comfortable looking to me for help. Relationships are so important.
But with all things, there is balance. You’re only in high school once, so it’s important to maximize your time doing what YOU want to do. I’ve had to learn to explore myself further.
Being a part of the basketball program here at school, I had some of the most fun playing the game I loved. But I was suffering and unfulfilled. I decided to try something new and I joined Rampage and quit the basketball program.
Joining Rampage opened so many more opportunities for me. Through Rampage I was able to start my own sports podcast with last year’s Sports Editor. I also competed in Broadcast Journalism for FBLA with Rampage member Lexi Wang. We ended up qualifying for the FBLA National Leadership Conference.
I was also able to find a new group of people that I enjoyed being around, completely turning my high school journey on its head. High school is about trying new things and finding yourself. I’m so fortunate that I did so.
When it’s all said and done, I’ll look back on my years in high school fondly. I’ll remember all of the great things we accomplished together and all the small moments we shared. I’m truly grateful for my school experience.
Thank you to those in Rampage, the POTC and to Troop 161 for everything. And thank you Temple City High School. So long.