Being a member of the Cherry Hill East Class of 2016 is probably one of the most exhausting jobs a high school student could take on. The countless hours of extracurricular activities, homework and time with friends can really wear a person down. I, for one, am completely and utterly worn out, but this kind of exhaustion is special.

I started my time at East knowing approximately four people. To my surprise, I was immediately welcomed, particularly in the vocal and theatre departments, with open arms. For anyone that knows me, it is very obvious that D-wing has become my home. My daily rehearsals with Stay Tuned, Casual Harmony and Voce during lunch and after school have molded me into a selfless leader, team player and lover of music. Staying at school until 11 p.m. has become one of my favorite things because I know that I’m doing what I love with the people that I love.

The best part about graduation is that while my enrollment will expire, the friendships I made will not. My fondest memories are those outside of the building, such as touring Europe with my friends and shooting “Pitch Slapped” over the summer. These memories will last a lifetime and are some of the best we will ever make. I cannot thank East enough for acting as the catalyst for all of these beautiful friendships formed over the past four years.

To my friends, never stop giving, teaching and loving. You have made my life inexplicably incredible, and I am truly lucky to have met you. I love you, and I’ll see you soon.

Andy Bernard from “The Office” stated these feelings clearly, “I wish there was a way to know you’re in the ‘good ol’ days’ before you’ve actually left them”. While some people are counting down the days to graduation, I’m counting down the days until I see my friends’ smiling faces again.