Commentary: End of year wrap-up

Thirteen years ago, Juliana Lozano walked onto the Northeast Campus of Fresno Christian Elementary School with curly pigtails and an unparalleled excitement. Unbeknownst to me, it would become the place I called home for much of my life. The students and staff welcomed me in like I was a part of their family and this continued throughout my high school career.

This campus gives students opportunities to display positive characteristics in and outside of the classroom. When someone is hurting or in need, the community pours into them with love and kindness.

While high school is full of ups and downs, as many know, there’s an abundance of amazing teachers and friends here to guide you through the chaos. I’ve had friends deal with anxiety and depression, but they are able to get through because of the love the student body shares.

Upon reflection, one of my favorite moments this year was bonding with my class on senior retreat. The conversations and stories shared showed that together we as a class overcame many obstacles thrown in our direction. The competitive nature that we share pushes us to be our best. From challenging one another during rallies to dominating powder puff, we competed. These small things trained us for the real world and the class of 2018 will move on to do great things. It is a class full of leaders, of warriors, and of believers who leave high school with confidence and a great joy that only Fresno Christian students have.

The variety of clubs and electives I’ve participated have shaped me. Cheer has taught me confidence. Ensemble taught me the importance of unity and having peace in the stress. CSF gave me the heart to help others and a love for doing so. AP classes taught me to balance my time. What did The Feather teach me? To search for the story in every situation. I go into more detail in the article I wrote during Scholastic Journalism Week, but I learned that every student, every person, has something to share. It’s important to give people that voice.

I’m incredibly thankful for the teammates and fellow members that participated and created next to me. The late nights we’ve spent revising articles, extra ensemble practices motivated by ice cream, and early morning cheer practices for competition create so many memories that I will cherish forever.

I’ve spent a lot of time in New York, from attending the National Youth Choir Festival Carnegie Hall (twice in my high school career) or going to Columbia University and bringing back awards. I’ve sang at community events, including an early 7 a.m. breakfast and stayed late to finish homecoming articles. High school is an experience full of crazy memories that I am grateful for. This may be one of the hardest goodbyes I’ll ever have to face.

Thank you, teachers and students alike, who saw my potential and believed in me when I needed it most. I appreciate everything you’ve done for me. My future is bright because of you.

I’ll be attending UC Davis and studying Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior in the fall and medical school after that. To all the underclassmen: I believe in you! Cherish the years left here at Fresno Christian, for it truly is a blessed place.

For another senior reflections, check out Senior Reflection: Mariana Fikse and Senior Reflection: Cayla Rivas and/or for a recent article by our student body president, read COLUMN: Roman Endicott says inspiring endeavors ahead. For one of last year’s senior reflection, read Senior Reflection: Jennifer King. You might also read BREAKING: Boys tennis hosts D-V Valley Championship vs Liberty Madera Ranchos, May 15.