Four years seems like a lifetime when looking into the future, but it seems like four seconds when looking back at the past. LHS Student Council has consumed my Monday mornings every other week since freshman year but I would have it no other way.

Having attended my last meeting this week at 7:30 a.m., it was bittersweet giving my last community service report to the council and passing on the reins to the next generation of our council’s leaders. This council has provided me with not only a plethora of useful life skills but friendships that will last a lifetime. Little did I know, spending hours making my campaign posters four years ago and handing out my “vote for Ariahna Wells” buttons would lead to so many memories.

I remember slowly working my way up the room, row by row, each year getting closer to my now front-row spot, but I also remember all of the amazing leaders that sat ahead of me, paving the way and helping shape me into the person I am today. They taught me how important it is to stand up for what you believe in and to always keep working for better outcomes because everyone is capable of great things. I never thought that timid, shy freshman who was contemplating even running in the first place would be the same outgoing and confident senior who walked out of room A201 from their last meeting. 

While these monumental life changes are hard to accept, especially for people who try and avoid change as much as possible like me, it is within these changes where the best memories and opportunities present themselves. This experience is a prime example of how taking that first step into the unknown and making yourself go for things outside of your comfort zone can provide the best results.

Life truly is impossible to predict, but I would have it no other way. Whether you are running for Student Council this year, already on Student Council, or pursuing other paths, keep an open mind to what there is to offer.