As I head into the school year, my state of mind as a senior is to become more confident and happy.

My dad passed away during the summer and his passing made me realize to live life to the fullest. He told me not to care about what other people think and just do my own thing. My dad and I were really close and I hope I don’t cry during graduation.

Although he won’t be able to attend my graduation with the Class of 2015, I’m dedicating this year to him because I know even though he’s not here I want him to be proud of me and what I have become.

This school year I’m looking forward to football season, dances, ASB workdays, rallies, and a whole lot of other events the Islands has to offer. Football season is so wonderful, especially with the Raider spirit and close friends.

I’m excited to watch the games because my cousins Kevin Farala, Bryan and Jeff Farin are playing this year. I also plan to go to other games to support and also learn more about the sport.

I’m going to every dance this year because it’s senior year and I regret not going to many dances the past years. I’m excited for rallies and ASB workdays because it seems like there is more spirit this year and being in ASB makes me feel like I’m part of something.

This year will be different from the others because of my confidence and doing more activities. I used to want to be alone and I would try to ignore everyone. I would also push away my friends because I was always stressed out, depressed, and I felt like there was no one to turn to. I wanted to read books all day because reading helped me escape to a different world.

I used to always leave school upset and insecure, but since I joined ASB and help out after school I have met new friends and I have overcome my shyness.

My goals this year are to get good grades, make new friends, and also do a sport here at Channel Islands. I want to get good grades for college and also make both my parents proud.