My senior year has definitely surpassed any other year at Fresno Christian.

I started off as a busy little kindergartner, struggling to learn how to tie my shoes, and now I am graduating with highest honors.

I have learned so much through the past 13 years on campus. Not only can I tie my shoes, but I have also exceeded my wildest high school-geared dreams, academically and relationally.

Now despite what many of my fellow peers may say about my father roping me into his journalism program, all my life I planned to be a staff reporter and now it was my turn. During my sophomore year, I joined the fabulous Feather staff with aspirations to become head photographer. Then two years later, I found myself accepting a Pacemaker award as the online editor-in-chief.

While journalism has been a fueled my passions for writing and photography, the relationships I formed at Fresno Christian have made the biggest impact on my life. As a perfectionist I could boast my report card and my long list of extra-curricular activities. But compared to the bonds I have made with my little circle, these accomplishments are worthless.

Strong friendships are the most precious treasures life offers us, far more than straight ?As? and diverse resumes. Without the support and encouragement of my friends, I would be nothing but another overachiever holding a signed piece of paper.

In the musical Wicked, Glinda and Elphaba talk about the impact friends have in our lives and how they are the inspiration for our stories. I think Elphaba can sum up my thanks: ?so much of me/ is made of what I learned from you/ you?ll be with me/ like a hand-print on my heart.?

I might have the certificate on May 25, but the most valuable decoration will be the people on stage beside me. My friends are my diploma; my keys to graduating.