I started at FCS as a Christian, Republican-conservative and left as something much different, but in my opinion, more myself than I ever had been. The people I met during my time here changed my character for the better. Eight years, that’s how long I have attended Fresno Christian for. Before fourth grade, I never stayed in one place long.

I have lived through tremendous highs and endured soul-crushing lows here. Despite this, each experience formed me into something that felt truly my own. From my classes with Brian Butler to AP Calculus with Scott Bucher, my world views were forever affected by every teacher and classmate along the way.

The best memories I have are by far the ones I share with my friends. Although we have differences with each other, their company made every day an enjoyable one. I am proud to say that they all have supported me through the hardest times of my life, even when I traveled paths they’re not used to.

My absolute favorite memory, which also holds the most emotion for me, is by far our senior year championship football game. It was wonderful to see my blood, sweat and tears pay off for one final game. No words in the dictionary could explain the sensation I felt when Coach Fuller handed me the game ball after we won; all I could do was cry. I can’t express how happy I am to say that I dedicated myself to the sport instead of nearly quitting freshman year.

For my future, I hope to challenge myself more than I ever have. I want to pursue a career in aerospace engineering and possibly astrophysics. I aspire to become an astronaut, regardless of how daunting it seems, as this has been my dream since childhood. Ten years from now, I hope I’ll be applying for astronaut candidacy at NASA or working for Lockheed Martin. Both of these goals are highly ambitious, but I firmly believe that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.

My Feather journey officially began in my junior year, but I wish I had started earlier. The program has given me experiences and skills that no other class can compete with. Over my two years on the team, I have been to roughly eight countries and even more foreign cities during my Europe trip. Traveling wasn’t the reason I joined; my main motivation came from the talents I would develop in journalism by being here. 

As the news editor, I faced unique responsibilities and challenges on the team. It taught me critical team building and communication skills that I am able to apply in my everyday life. I’m also confident in saying that my training with The Feather helped me land a stable job by building my resume and allowing me to be interviewed more confidently.

My absolute favorite memory isn’t a single instance, but rather a whole week. Our trip to NYC for the CSPA conference was filled with moments that deserve their own stories. From delicious food and exciting sports to well-fought awards and triumphant shouts, the entire trip was filled with never-ending emotions.

The skills I gained from the program are unparalleled. I learned how to write professionally, interview with class and grow closer to my friends. My confidence also followed a similar improvement. I grew from an introverted mess into someone not afraid to ask questions.

If I had to advise others on the team or students considering joining, I would highly recommend staying with The Feather. It’s more than just a VPA or elective; it’s the closest thing a student can get to an actual job and a second family (or third for me). The workplace experience you receive is invaluable for life after high school.

In the end, I learned that my favorite things about FCS was never the school itself, but the people I got to see almost everyday for eight years straight. They are the ones who helped me make memories that last a lifetime.

As they say, “When one door closes, another opens,” but I prefer saying, “There is no end to a horizon.” Limitless possibilities entail countless hardships but also promise hope and serendipity. Now is the time, more than ever, to find who you are, not what someone else wants you to be. Don’t buckle or yield when faced with the cruelty of this world; keep moving forward, even if you have to crawl to that horizon.

Gallery • 10 Photos

Giada Gilmore Young

Hayden Spurrier explored Europe with The Feather and AP European History classes.

To read more Senior Reflections, visit Senior Reflection: Mallory Friesen and Senior Reflection: Ian Palsgaard.

For my favorite articles, check out Book Review: ‘Fantium’ smashes magic and merits together and EDITORIAL: Generative AI stirs up ethical dilemma.