Four years ago I remember walking into the high school for the first time as a freshman. I put my backpack in my locker. I talked in the guy’s bathroom and I stood in the middle of the hallway in the morning. My life was a mess. But since then I’ve changed a lot. The thing is I couldn’t have done this by myself so instead of trying to be funny and making some cheap jokes, I just wanted to take the time to thank as many people as I can for helping me over the past four years. So many great (and terrible) people have influenced me over the years and it would be a shame for me not to recognize them.

Dear kids who hang out in Pod 2 before school, Thank you all for taking me in as your friend. I don’t think I would have enjoyed high school as much if it were not for you guys. I really contribute my growth as a person from being a socially awkward science nerd to a socially awkward political junkie with a twitter account, to you guys. You’ve really shaped the way I think about people and my future. I cannot thank you enough and I cannot wait for this summer.

Dear Cross Country team and Guys Catalina members, sorry I sucked. Thanks for treating me like I didn’t.

Dear Bucs’ Blade staff, thank you for putting up with me for the past two years. It’s weird to think that some of the most stressful situations and some of the happiest moments from high school can happen in the same room. Let alone on the same day. Out of all of the things from high school I will miss you people the most. It’s just too bad I could never get magazine paper for you guys.

To all of the wonderful women that I’ve tried to have romantic encounters with. I am sorry you had to deal with that. That one was my bad.

Dear Mom, thank you for always being so supportive of everything I’ve done. Over the past 13 years of schooling you’ve made my lunch every single day. I not only have to thank you for countless meals but I have to thank you for helping me out when I’m in a jam. You have no idea how much your constant love and support means to me. The next few years are going to be rough on us but I know we can handle it. Thank you for everything you do. I love you.

For the past four years I have been surrounded with teachers that not only pushed me to challenge myself but truly inspired me. Thank you Grand Haven High School staff for helping out the class of 2014 for the past four years. You have no idea how much it means to all of us.