It is strange to think about how much I’ve changed over four years. In freshman Collegio, I was the kid raising my hand every time the teacher asked a question. I was eager and ambitious, with something to prove. As a senior, I instead value listening to what my classmates have to say, sharing something only when I know I have a meaningful idea to contribute. This shift from performing to participating wasn’t just a natural product of maturing; it was earned through a series of unexpected pivots, reflecting the profound importance of flexibility and remaining open to growth.
When I started high school, I wanted to join Mock Trial but applied first to join The Panther, unaware that I could only pick one. I didn’t have a huge interest in journalism, but I was quickly thrown into the life of a staff writer: brainstorming, interviewing, and designing. I immediately knew I’d found an activity that spoke to my curiosity. I pivoted to focusing on The Panther, which has been a highly rewarding experience. Journalism has become a creative outlet for me, a way to expand my skill set and grow in my leadership.
Some pivots were harsher than others. I played soccer freshman year but didn’t make the team sophomore year. It’s a common experience, but a defining one. I was no prodigy, but I had grown up playing soccer year-round, only to be cut two days before school started.
Needing an activity, I joined cross country. I had spent nine years being forced to run CYO XC as a kid, and I hated it. It felt painful and purposeless. That first day, changing into running shoes instead of shin guards, I was filled with dread. Yet, pushing through that initial discomfort taught me the value of being flexible when plans fall apart and to give things a second chance. Cross country became the highlight of my Prep experience. I made upperclassman friendships, relished seeing my times creep down, and learned the grit that running requires. It even led me to run a half marathon last November.
Some pivots come well after plans have been made. In 5th grade, I made the customary declaration that I was going to medical school and would become a doctor someday. I wasn’t scared of blood, and I watched Grey’s Anatomy, so, sure, I could become a doctor. This goal propelled me all the way until last year in AP Gov, when the assertion was challenged.
I was highly intrigued learning about public policy and the functions of government, far more so than I had been in any science class. I realized that performing surgery and prescribing medicine wasn’t the only way to help people. I could do something else meaningful, such as becoming a journalist, that spoke more specifically to my evolving interests. So, I’ve pivoted, and I’ll be studying English and Political Science next year.
Pivoting is defined as making an adjustment in order to adapt or improve while retaining a core capability. Evidently, I’ve adapted during my time at Prep, but I’ve also stayed true to myself. Being open to growth means understanding that changing your mind or your path is a strength, not a weakness. I’ve learned that these natural and forced pivots are exactly what have shaped me into the resilient person graduating next week.
