Seniors. We’ve made it. Only a couple of days until we walk across the stage, receive our diplomas and begin a new journey. Scary, right? Our futures are closer than we can even imagine, especially looking back to our freshmen year where we were scared and worried all the same. Similar feelings, different situations. Not only does adult life come with additional responsibilities, but it is a new experience within itself. We think we are completely ready to leave everything behind, to forget about high school, to say “goodbye” to family and friends and to never return to Antioch again. Newsflash, this feeling will not last forever. The first few nights where you are living in a new state and do not have your parents cooking dinner, you will begin to miss home. Antioch may not always seem like home, but it is where memories were created. Whether bad or good, these memories have shaped us to who we are now walking across the stage next weekend.

Joining the Tom Tom staff this year, I was not exactly sure what to expect. For a few moments, I was not sure if I could handle the work it would entail. Being thrown into a publication with deadlines and endless word counts, I would be lying if I said I wasn’t a little taken a back. After a couple months, I finally got into the swing of things, and was contributing to the print mags and the online content. Writing for Lifestyles is unique to say the least. For the most part, the desk and I had freedom to write about whatever we wanted that surrounded culture and beauty. But, we were not even limited there. Our desk ventured into music, film, books, and all things controversial. We did have our fun pieces, but throw in a couple complex stories, and we have a well-developed publishing desk. We did not always work together or meet deadlines, but in the end, I am proud of what we have accomplished this year.

Leaving Antioch, I am a bit tied. I will miss my home and family, but I am excited to begin my new future in Indianapolis next year. I tend to forget that we have the whole summer before we leave for Fall semester, which is both exciting and sad. Saying goodbye is never easy, especially when you are leaving behind those that you love and care for. I will miss writing for the Tom Tom; I learned most of what I know from this year alone. I wish the future staff and the Lifestyles desk the best luck of luck and success. Thank you Sequoits for an exciting year of writing!