“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 national stage and soak in everything this amazing activity has given me.
After that, it’s officially the Summer of Lasts. My last summer before college. My last few months as a “kid.” I’m planning to make it count — sleeping in a little, spending time with friends, eating too much ice cream, maybe even reading something not assigned for class (what a concept!).
Then come fall, I’m off to Oregon State University in Corvallis! Go Beavs! I’ll be diving into a new campus, new experiences, and a whole lot of unknowns. But I’m ready. I really am.
If you’d like to support me in this exciting next chapter, there’s a link below to send a little graduation love my way. 🎁 Every bit helps as I gear up for dorm life, textbooks, and probably more late-night ramen than I’d like to admit.
Thank you for being part of my journey — whether you cheered me on at debate tournaments, watched me play tennis, helped edit my essays, or just believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. I carry all of that with me as I step forward.
Here’s to the future. And here’s to the best summer yet. ☀️✨
👉 Click here to gift graduation money
With gratitude and excitement,
Jada 🐾🎓
Comments
Post a Comment