Grace Yoon (’20)

In the movie “Up,” Russell goes on the adventure of a lifetime with Mr. Frederickson. Yet, his memories of doing ordinary things are what he holds closest to his heart. In describing these moments, Russell says: “that might sound boring, but I think the boring stuff is the stuff I remember most.” I cannot agree with this quote more. While I do not consider my high school experience to have been defined by this unusual end to our school year, I would be remiss if I did not discuss what it has allowed me to realize. Although the class of 2020 has missed out on some of the most traditional events of high school, I still consider our high school experience to be very, very full. While the big moments are quick to come to mind when thinking about the high school experience, I do not believe that they define high school. For me, the small everyday moments—walking to class with a new friend or even sitting in class taking notes—have evolved to become invaluable memories such as laughing with my best friends between classes and discovering what passions I have. In the end, these seemingly meaningless moments are what hold the most value.

If I could go back in time and give my freshman self some advice, I would quote Maya Angelou in saying “be present in all things, and thankful for all things.” High school goes by fast and it’s easy to miss what is right in front of you. Although I wish I could walk through the halls one more time as an East student, I am thankful for these wonderfully ordinary experiences that East has given me and will carry them with me beyond my years at East. One final quote I’d like to leave with you is again from the movie Up: “Adventure is out there.” My hope is that you will be able to see it in its everyday form.