Open Letter From Senior, Julia Andrews

General

4/21/2021

"My twelve years at Westminster have prepared me beyond anything I could have imagined, my experience has been the epitome of what it means to be educated."

Wildcat Nation,

For the past few weeks as l walk to my first class of the day, I've been more conscious than ever that time is running out... I'll miss looking out at the dew on the field, the sun rising just above the trees, and Mrs. Bramhall greeting us when we arrive on campus. I'm excited for the next four years of my life, but recently I have been nostalgic about my time here at Westminster. Albert Einstein once said, "Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school." I may have forgotten how to properly balance a chemical equation or write a geometric proof, but the lessons Westminster has taught me go far beyond that. My twelve years at Westminster have prepared me beyond anything I could have imagined, my experience has been the epitome of what it means to be educated. I've learned how to problem solve, manage time, and most importantly, how to glorify God through whatever I choose to do with my life.

I'm so thankful for the dozens of teachers during my time here, each one of them being Christ-like examples that I respect. They are often taken for granted, but the amount of wisdom and patience they have is unmatched. There has never been a day that I have walked into school without knowing that I am loved and cared for by my teachers, coaches, and administration. We often fall short and disappoint them, but they are always understanding and slow to anger, consistently seeking to direct us toward Christ. I strongly encourage all students to see your teachers as people who care for you like no other, instead of only as the people who assign homework!

My favorite part of Westminster is the enriching conversations that we have in class, especially conversations about our faith. The freedom to put the curriculum aside to discuss something that deepens our understanding of Christianity is something I will miss most in college. This community cares about all the students and our faith journeys, which is so rare. To everyone who supports Westminster, I can't thank you enough for investing in my friends and me. Your volunteering, funding, and prayers have made such an impact on my life and the lives of many others throughout the years.

Freshmen, high school goes faster than you think. You're stuck together for three more years, so be kind to each other. Sophomores, I know school is difficult, but stick with it! It'll be worth all the hard work in the end. Juniors, I strongly encourage you to intentionally consider your legacy. Spend your next year striving to be remembered by your love instead of by the accolades. You will be looked up to by the whole school, don't take that lightly!

To the seniors, we have been through a lot together, especially spending our last year of childhood in a global pandemic. We've had our disagreements, but I wouldn't have wanted to grow up with anyone else. Things like playing infected, trading silly bands, and alligator on the ark are what we'll remember as our childhood memories. Watching Twilight Zone in Mr. Joiner's class, outdoor classrooms, and duck day are from the days that shaped us. These memories brought us all together, and I'm so thankful for the friendships I've made that have turned into lifelong relationships. I'll miss all of you so much, but I know you will accomplish amazing things. Never forget that you have a group of forty-one people cheering you on!

Julia