Blog: A Senior’s Advice for Freshmen

My growth at Shawnee Mission East can be shown through politics.

The first day of freshman year, I walked in thinking that I was pretty much the best thing to ever hit the school. I believed I had the potential to be the governor as a freshman in high school. The problem was, I expected people to do everything for me. People would offer me activities on a silver platter. When that didn’t happen, I was shocked. Didn’t they know who I was?

There was a presidential election that year and I did nothing to involve myself. I loved politics, but no one approached me with an outlet or a way to get involved. It hadn’t even occurred to me that I could have done something for myself. I spent my election night sitting on the couch watching the results, wishing I had done something more.

Sophomore year was much of the same with the only difference being more involvement in activities that the school provided. These additional activities opened doors to countless other opportunities. The summer before my junior year I worked on a political campaign and from that point forward, my world has been a different place. I spent the next election at my campaign’s watch party. When the school year started, I created a politics club at SM East, and joined journalism and debate. All of these activities have given me the opportunity to dive deeper into my political interests. This summer I went to Sunflower Girls State to learn more about our government and I am currently working on establishing a stronger Johnson County Teenage Republican club.

Looking back, I can see what I should have done with my interests. I should have created my own path. I haven’t decided if this realization was part of what drove me to get as involved as possible or if I realized this because of my involvement.

Going into my senior year, I feel a connection to SM East that I will never be able to fully explain. I never imagined I would enjoy spending fifteen consecutive hours at school or that I would look forward to spending my Saturdays representing East in classrooms across the area debating. I am so fortunate to be in a place that fits me so well. My only regret is that I waited so long to create the bond with my school.

So freshman, don’t broaden your horizons in the same way I did. Start now and find your passion early. We are fortunate enough to go to a school that not only allows, but also pushes students to be their best. But remember, you can only find your passion if you look for it.