The 2021-2022 school year was a very special year for me because it was my first year of high school. It was a big change, that’s for sure. I spent most of middle school online because of COVID, but I definitely missed in-person school and interacting with real people. During my freshman year, I made so many memories that I will remember fondly for my entire life. I met peers and teachers and did activities that will bring me joy forever when I remember them. I’m nervous and excited to do it all again next year, but hopefully next time I’ll know what I’m doing a little more. Yes, this all sounds very cheesy, but it’s how I truly feel.

To start, I’ll talk about the people. I technically didn’t meet them this year, but I could not have done this without my bestest friends in the whole wide world. I was very flustered at the start, and having people in the same situation helped me feel grounded and secure in the chaos. I always had someone to talk to about my worries and a place to sit at lunch. I honestly don’t know what I would have done without them. 

I also made many friends this year. I used to be very shy and introverted, so it was a surprise to find that I was socializing with so many new people this year! I have talked to my teachers and even gotten to know them. I’ve thrived this year socially and academically. My grades were always good in middle school, but this year I managed to get straight As. I’m not saying this to brag or anything, I’m just so proud of myself, and I worked incredibly hard. I don’t expect to pull that off again next year, but I will absolutely keep up my great work ethic.

Forest Grove High School has so many activities and opportunities that middle school did not. I’m passionate about writing, so I joined the journalism class. I met amazing people, had an amazing teacher, and wrote articles every month. Without that class, this very article would not exist. I’m glad I joined this class because it’s lots of fun, and I will definitely be taking it again next year!

Another program that this high school offers that I tried out was theater. I acted in our Crazytown and Mamma Mia! I didn’t have any big roles, but it was still so much fun. I know I’m sounding repetitive, but the people are amazing. I made some new friends that I can’t wait to see again next year when the next play starts. I never thought that I would like theater, but I went out on a limb and tried it, and ended up loving it!

While the programs and activities that this school provides are amazing, what truly made my year were the people. Yes, there are bad apples in every community, but the majority of the student body are accepting, kind, and fun. Most teachers genuinely care about the well-being and success of their students and are passionate about what they’re teaching. 

While online reviews may be mixed, I would recommend Forest Grove High School as a lovely place to attend. I’m excited for the new things I’m going to learn and experience and the friends that I will make next year.