Jada's Graduation

 

Today I graduated. Caps, gowns, folding chairs on the football field—check. Speeches about change and bright futures—check. Sun beating down, awkwardly holding my diploma while trying not to overthink how to walk across a stage—check. I thought I’d cry. I didn’t. Not out of cold-heartedness or anything—it just felt like something I’d already processed. Like finishing a long book and quietly closing the cover. Not dramatic. Just… done. Still, it meant something to look up and see everyone there. People who’ve known me in different ways, showing up in theirs. Brielle was glowing. She was so excited to be there, dressed up and cheering like the whole event was for her to celebrate ME—and maybe it kind of was. Grandma Marcia sat calmly, watching everything with her usual composed grace. Brandon was steady and cool as ever, and Dad—he actually said he was proud of me. Out loud. That stuck with me more than I expected. Stephen made his rounds, trying to keep the awkward silences at bay, and...

  “The Finish Line, Nationals, and the Summer of Lasts” By Jada Zeedyk Wow. I’m actually writing this as a high school graduate . That still doesn’t feel real! After four incredible (and sometimes exhausting) years at Marist High School in Eugene, I’m finally closing the chapter on this part of my life — and I’m walking away with honors . 🎓💙 High school has been such a wild ride. From the late nights rewriting speeches and researching debate topics, to the early mornings before tennis matches, I’ve poured so much of myself into these years. And I wouldn’t trade any of it. Being part of the Speech & Debate team has especially shaped who I am — it gave me confidence, a voice, and some of the best friendships I could ask for. And guess what? I’m not quite done yet! Just after graduation, I’ll be flying off to compete at Nationals for Speech & Debate ! I’m both nervous and so, so excited. It feels like the perfect sendoff — one last chance to speak my truth on a nationa...