In the best of ways, my time at Sandia Prep has been my most terrifying experience, yet, I am pleased to have an opportunity to thank those who helped me along my journey through high school.

That adventure began when my mother sent me into the world and out of home school at age 12.

There, I met companions and mentors who assisted me through my hardships and celebrated my accomplishments at Prep.

I soon met Bailey, my guide to social survival, since I was inept, and the best girlfriend I have ever had.

It was my mother who helped me the most over the next two years, assisting me both with school, illness, and social dilemmas. Mrs. Martinez, our athletic trainer, always sacrificed hours attempting to cure my weird and random injuries.

During my sophomore year, with the nickname "Speedy," I was trained through my most successful seasons of track and cross country with the patience and dedication of my coach, Lin, who helped me establish my cherished reputation as a distance runner.

Possibly the most important aspect of my sophomore year, though, was the moment I fell in love. To everyone who has ever picked up a pigskin for my sake, I extend my eternal thanks.

Football has brought me through days, weeks, and months, of nearly drama-ridden high school society.

Now, after making it through four years, I take this opportunity to show my appreciation to my school mom and journalism teacher, Ms. Goessl, for teaching me to write; my adviser, Mr. Wettin, for constantly renewing my motivation and having faith in me; my English teacher, Ms. Perry, for lending an ear; my history teacher, Mr. Briley, for his patience; the athletic director, Mr. MacFarlane, for always giving me a hard time; my Spanish teacher, Mrs. Otero, for being the best teacher I've ever had; my old physical education teacher, Mr. Smith, for all the cricket games; and Eddie at the front desk for always being cheerful.

Behind the scenes, my mother has worked hard to give me an outstanding education, my father has instructed me in a Christian manner, my best friend, Tyler, has stood by my side at every happy and sad moment, and all my siblings have shown me that a house can never be too full of love.

On the inside, Prep gave me the opportunities and challenges that I needed to grow as an individual both emotionally and intellectually.

Teachers and staff never stopped supporting my ambitions and never lost faith in my abilities. I doubt I would have been encouraged this much at any other school.

I do not fall under the category of a "lifer" - a student who has attended Prep since sixth grade. But Prep has become my life. My friends have served as my role models.

As editor-in-chief of the Times, hostess of SPRI Radio and captain of the track team, my love for my school and amazement at the growth I have encountered here is exceeded only by my sadness at leaving Prep's family and my gratitude for the education and encouragement I received from Sundevil community and my friends in the class of '06.