I remember exactly what I wore in my first moments as a Fresno Christian student. As a fresh kindergarten student, I proudly donned a green criss-cross skirt and matching green top.

And now I know exactly what I’ll be wearing in my final moments as a Fresno Christian student. The maroon graduation robes sit in the corner of my room, awaiting the evening of May 24.

As cliche as it sounds, I’ve worn many outfits throughout my 13 years at FC, both literally and metaphorically. I was a sporty tomboy in elementary school (which might be a shock for those who have only known me the past few years), I was a Lord of the Rings and Star Wars nerd, I was a ballet dancer, I was a band geek, I was (am) a journalism freak.

Though there are definitely some moments and stages that I’d rather not admit to, I can’t take back the past, but can only really learn from what I’ve done. And with 13 years at this school, I’ve seen plenty.

Pretty much anyone at FC will tell you that it is the most unique place with the most awesome people that you will ever meet, and I certainly back that up.

FC is not just a place where you’ll find a lightsaber battle in the hallway. It’s a place where you know that your friends will pray for you and accept you. It’s a place where you know that your teachers have your best interest in mind, and will work with you to achieve goals. Everybody here has something interesting to say.

Maybe the girl next to you draws incredible pictures by memory like nobody’s business. Maybe the guy to your left is in a band with a single on iTunes (product placement, I know, sue me). Maybe the man at the front of the class talking about neutrons actually went to medical school in Taiwan, has done gymnastics and was a cheerleader in college.*

*Disclaimer: All situations and characters resembling real life are entirely fictional, and have no relation to true events. Really.

But in all honesty, I wouldn’t trade the FC life for anything. I hear complaints about going to a small school, having no school spirit, bad classes and anything else we teenagers can conjure up, but this school is far from bad.

That is why, after so much consideration, I have chosen to attend Gordon College, a Christian school in Wenham, MA. Having been around mentor-like teachers and friends who not only have my back, but are praying for me, I can’t imagine being in any other sort of environment.

I know, however, that not everyone will choose a Christian college. But for those who are still at FC, I encourage so much, that you take advantage of what is around you while you can.

Don’t look at rules and corrections as unfair restrictions. If you’re struggling in a class, put some effort into actually discussing it with the teacher instead of just complaining that the material doesn’t make sense. Branch out and try something new instead of staying in one place every day (I can say this without being hypocritical because, believe it or not, I’ve actually done things that aren’t journalism).

The incredible thing about Fresno — yes, I said it — is that the Christian community is strong. There are well over 200 churches in the city, and those Christians are all over the place. There are ministries going on in unexpected places, and I can pretty much guarantee that there is at least one place to suit each person.

For example, Kuppajoe and Club Retro are concert venues that hold concerts all the time. Last time I was there, Kuppajoe even advertised a Bible study and services for people who feel unaccepted in other church environments due to tattoos, lifestyles and such.

The bottom line is, FC is the place to be. You don’t have to be in a bubble if you don’t want to be. You can build up a strong education. You can participate in anything you want to be involved in.

It might take a few tries to find the niche you fit into, but don’t be scared to try. There will always be friends and teachers there to back you up when you fall, and life would be no fun if you don’t test your options. Try something new on for a size!

Senior Mary Hierholzer will attend Gordon College in Wehnahm, MA, in the fall to study Communications.

For more senior columns, read the May 10 article, Journalism shapes senior’s aspirations.