Nicole Benson (’20)

Ever since I was little, I always enjoyed school. I love learning new skills in all aspects of life and I love being surrounded by other students, teachers, and peers. However, my years at East for sure changed my life. Little did I know my four years would be cut to three and a half. Throughout these years, I have faced days where I dread getting up, begged to stay home, and stressed over homework or tests, but I mean it when I say it was worth it.

I can proudly say that I have made the most of my high school experience. Some years I for sure wish I did more clubs or took different classes, but my best and worst decisions made me who I am today. This first club I joined as a freshman, Interact club, gave me the chance to help my community while meeting so many amazing students and adults. I then took advantage of my chance to interview for blood drive chairperson as a shy sophomore. Blood drive helped me embrace my passion for helping people in need while learning so many new leadership and medical skills. Joining DECA as a junior, clueless of what I was getting myself into, led me to my passion for business and a second place trophy for a 20 page business plan. Running for SGA representative led me to two amazing years of planning events and creating unforgettable memories with my class. I joined these clubs (and more) not only because they were a fun way to meet new students, but because I felt that I was making a difference in my life, other lives, and the East Community.

Some advice an upperclassman gave me going into senior year: “Please cherish every moment next year, never say no to plans, go to as many school events as possible, and do whatever it takes to slow down time, do not rush, because it moves too fast.” I cannot emphasize this enough, especially with our senior year ending in the blink of an eye with no formal goodbyes. I am thankful for making memories that I will laugh, smile, and cry over for the rest of my life. I certainly was not ready for Friday, March 13th to be my last day of high school. Even though this chapter of our lives was not supposed to end this way, it sure does make for an unforgettable crazy ending. Thank you for everything East.