Dear Freshman Sheila,

High School has just begun and already the work and changes overwhelm you. Believe

me when I say you are not the only one feeling that, some people are just good at hiding that

anxiety. Either way, trust me it gets better. High school wouldn’t be high school without its

hardships and our four years of high school have their share of hardships.

Each year will present a new challenge, but you will be resilient and move forward with

that stubborn grace. While there are definitely downs to our highschool career, the highs are

what I have chosen to focus on. It has been four years of stepping outside of our comfort zone.

From traveling to Ecuador to participating in theater as a part of NUEVA. NUEVA has been the

reigning champ of our newfound confidence. I am forever grateful to Ms. Godwin who helped

me get into NUEVA because that was probably the best decision I ever made. I have loved my

two years in NUEVA and will miss it terribly.

We have made countless memories and friendships. I hope you realize how loved and

cared for you are. Don’t be afraid to meet new people and try new things because those are the

experiences we will remember.

Above all, remember that you are important and while school is important, your mental

health is too. It’s ok to take breaks and hangout with friends. Trust yourself and your abilities

and high school will be that much easier. In the end everything will be ok and we set off to a

four year university, so hang in there, the time will fly by.

Love,

Sheila Alvarez

Class of 2021