I never wanted to take journalism. When I was given the option between English 9 or full-year journalism, it was an easy choice. I hated writing, so I quickly chose English 9 without a second thought.

But then when my schedule came out for freshman year, I was placed in semester journalism. To say I was angry would be an understatement. I sent many emails to my counselor asking if I could change classes before summer was even over.

That all changed on the first day. Mr. K made such a fantastic impression that after class, I emailed my counselor that I wanted to stay. That was the best choice I have ever made.

Before the second semester started, Mr. K asked me if I wanted to be on staff for the next semester. Without a second thought, I said yes to being on The Journal. It was scary at first, but I soon began to love it.

Since then, I have learned not only writing but also designing and getting to work with such a large group of people. The memories I formed in Room 400 are some I’ll never forget. Some of the top ones are designing centerfold pages under a blanket fort, playing Just Dance on the last day of junior year and all the production night dinners.

I couldn’t have done this alone. Not just in The Journal, but throughout all of high school, many people have been there to help me along the way. I would like to thank Ms. Fowerbaugh, Mrs. Frantz, Mr. Winebarger, Mrs. Schnepp and, of course, Mr. K for being the amazing educators they are. Also, huge thanks to Ava, Lily and Michelle for making Journal such a fun and loving place.

From once despising the thought of journalism to now loving it, Room 400 has seen it all. It has watched me grow, and now it’s time to say goodbye, even though I don’t want to. It’s been a wonderful four years, and I couldn’t imagine it any other way!