To My Freshman Self:

Reflecting on my freshmen year, I wish I would have realized sooner how lucky I was to have been able to attend Cooper. I would like to thank Mr. Mihle for a rigorous freshman world history class that I know helped me become a stronger history student. I would tell myself to start photography as soon as possible, and I’m grateful I found my passion for photography early in my high school career. Lastly, I would tell myself that meaningless conversations with boys should not take up all of my time.

On Sophomore Year:

Sophomore year was probably the hardest. I am sorry to Mr. Ashworth for my utter lack of understanding of the most basic elements of physics (I loved that class though). The assigned reading that year was amazing and I would tell myself to read more than just the school books! This was the year of Algebra 2, the hardest math class in my high school career, and I would tell myself to stop talking to Mohib and pay attention!! This year I became close to the person that means the most to me and I will always cherish that. Lastly, I am proud of you for starting to explore summer programs at colleges and coming to the self-realization that the fashion world is not for you.

On Junior Year:

Junior year was enjoyable, all my relationships were at their best. I loved all my teachers. Ms. Wiggins was new and her class was one I always looked forward to. I loved how she always challenged us and we had many interesting discussions. It gave us the opportunity to have meaningful conversations and debates outside of our social circles. Junior Year also involved the sweetest teacher I have had in my four years at Cooper, Ms. Mathis. She would always bake the most amazing desserts and it was always a “treat” being in her advisory. I would also tell myself to really focus on SAT practice to alleviate a future involving a lot of stress. This summer I went to New York for a college program which helped me strengthen my photography skills and cultivated my love for the city.

On The Recent Past and The Future:

Now in my weeks of high school, I have never been more excited for my future. Despite all the ups and downs, I had always tried my hardest which paid off. I will be attending the school of my dreams, NYU. I am so grateful for the teachers that shaped me into the student I am, to those have helped me grow academically, and to the teachers and friends who have shaped me into the person I am today. I feel competent enough now to thrive in New York and continue to pursue my goals. None of this would have been possible without my parents, who’ve supported me through every decision I have made. I want to show my parents that the little girl they raised has accomplished her goals and has been successful in what she loves, mostly thanks to everything they’ve done to shape her into the person she is today.