If I could simplify my high school experience into just three words, it would be to expect the unexpected. Throughout my four years at school, these three basic words have defined and strengthened my experiences here. From the college application process, to classes I enjoyed that I never expected, to being a writer for four years on Common Sense, I have learned how my preconceived expectations did not always become reality and how I learned to embrace the experiences I did not anticipate.

Entering my freshman year of high school was a unique and exciting experience. On one hand, learning from home would be a new challenge I had to push through. On the other hand, I was finally in high school. I could pick my classes, choose what clubs I wanted to join, and begin the exciting journey that would lead me to college. Newfound responsibilities were placed upon me, including choosing my classes. I had the option of subjects that I had never had the opportunity to try before. One of them was writing for the school newspaper.

Initially, my thought process was simple: I would give writing for the newspaper a try for a year, and then drop out when I returned to school. I never imagined that the newspaper would become anything more than a freshman year filler class, certainly not something I would write for every year of high school and serve as a sports editor my senior year. It was completely unexpected. As my high school journey continued, more unexpected experiences arose for me, specifically, the college application process.

My college application process was possibly the most unexpected part of my high school journey. Since I started high school, I always dreamed of going to a college in a warmer weather climate, specifically Florida Atlantic University. It made perfect sense for me. It was the first school I toured, the first school I heard back from, and everything from the campus to the athletics to the exciting academic programs piqued my interest. It also didn’t hurt to have family 20 minutes from campus. However, it was almost too perfect.

On the suggestion of a family friend, I went to take a tour of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. This tour, which I was not entirely thrilled about attending seeing as my thoughts were elsewhere, once again proved to me that I needed to expect the unexpected. I loved it. The campus was great, the people were nice, and I ultimately made a decision I wasn’t anticipating when determining my future. I was going to pass on the opportunity to follow my expectations.

When looking back over the experiences that have helped shape my four years here, the greatest lesson I can take was that my expectations went largely unmet but the unexpected experiences, challenges and opportunities that arose made for a memorable four years. If I could give any advice to students entering Wootton or continuing in their high school careers,it would be simple. Make sure to spend time with your friends, join as many activities as you can, and always follow your passions and interests, but most importantly, expect the unexpected. It will create memorable experiences.