Itzel Gutierrez
While many eagerly count down the days until graduation, I find myself surprised by the swiftly passing time, something that is constantly echoed by seniors in the hallways.
I have noticed that I quickly went from a Sophomore navigating the hallways in confusion- arriving 10 minutes later than expected at French 1- to an experienced Senior who confidently knows every corner of the school and has connected with most of its people.
Although this year has brought several learning opportunities, as becoming the sole editor for OeHowl, it has also brought life lessons. I learned the importance of perseverance, dedication, and how vital it is building relationships in classrooms. Working alongside Mr. DiNardo gave me hands-on experience on organizing a successful publication- which will ultimately help me as a journalist in the future.
I found my true passion in this classroom, and had the opportunity to show that passion to the digital journalism 1 students this year. As my writing matured, so did I, learning to embrace criticism and suggestions and learning the ability to give feedback.
While my high school journey involved more than just the journalism class, it’s clear that many of the lessons that will stay with me were rooted in that space.
Throughout my four years at East I experienced a wide range of emotions, whether it was balancing work, supporting my mother through brain tumor surgeries, or managing the rigorous coursework I received. It was a difficult four years to say the least, but I made sure to stay strong through it all.
Being in school while I went through these life changing obstacles was pivotal for the personal growth I experienced. Not only did I learn time management, but I also learned the importance of prioritizing things that are significant to my life. Family is the most important thing there is, and my biggest goal since I could remember was to fulfill all of the dreams that my parents could not accomplish.
These four years were a stepping stone for my personal, and educational growth. I’ve been honored with awards for my passions, been introduced to new faces, and embraced novel experiences.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Dinardo for his dedication over the past year, eager to make sure our publication reached its utmost potential. To Mrs. Calvey, who ushered me into the world of journalism and stands out as the best teacher I’ve ever had. To my parents, who have been my guidepost and cheerleaders for every achievement I have made. To my friends and boyfriend, who have lightened my load on the heaviest days. Thank you to everyone who has helped my growth, and most importantly stood by my side.
Sincerely,
Itzel Gutierrez
Melissa Adams
These four years have simultaneously been the shortest and longest years of my life. Not having a real freshman year of high school affected my experience as I missed out on what should have been one of my most memorable years, but we all adapted and overcame it.
Every one of us has grown and changed as these years have passed. Friends have been lost and gained, relationships have sparked, and memories have been made. Looking around and seeing classmates that I have known from elementary school mature and grow into strong young adults has been mind blowing. I still picture them as the little kids running out to the playground during recess and playing games at lunch.
Growing up is both exciting and terrifying. When we were kids, we all wished to be older but now, some of us wish we could go back. Planning out what to do with our life now is scary as there are so many unknowns and unanswered questions. Some people are lost and some have had their life planned out for years. Moving on to something new is nerve-racking as OE has been our second home for 4 years.
These past few years haven’t been amazing for me, but they haven’t been bad either. I have faced many struggles along the way, but I had some amazing experiences as well. I have made so many friends, some whom I still talk to and some I have lost contact with, but they all have helped create amazing memories and experiences. There have been a lot of long days, stress, anxiety, anger, tiredness, and so on, but there have also been days that I will never forget.
There are so many teachers at this school who have made my days better. Teachers whose classes I was excited to go to every day, and teachers I knew who I could talk to if I ever needed it. Mr. Van, Mr. Hillman, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Dunbar, and Coach Mo have all made my days better. They made their classes fun and built friendships with their students to make their time more enjoyable.
Leaving OE is going to be weird as this is all I have known for the past four years, but I am excited to move on and continue my journey. I will never forget some of the friends I have made along the way, the teachers that brightened my days. The hardest thing is going to be leaving them behind and going our separate ways, but I know we are all moving on to something bigger and better.
Here’s to all of the memories and all of the future ones we are about to make.
Sincerely,
Melissa Adams
Wesley Akyea
As I set foot into the halls, my mind is filled with eagerness to explore the wonders of this school. However, with all that excitement comes more worry and even nervousness. Will I be able to find my way around? Will I be able to make friends? Will I become an outcast? These are the questions I ask myself in times of worry. Just like when I came to the first grade, being the “New Kid” I was unsure of what was in front of me and my future.
Suddenly I entered my sophomore and junior years of high school. I had just learned about the different ways to get around the school, so I struggled a lot. With the help of the teachers and staff, I learned my way around the school well. During my sophomore year, I discovered a ton of clubs and activities that I could participate in. I joined the BSA club, a club for black students at East. This club would make an important impact during my time at East. I made new friends in that club and eventually helped in organizing our yearly Black Excellence Show.
Years flew by, and I didn’t even realize it. During my time at East, one of the most transformative experiences was my involvement in Digital Journalism. In Digital Journalism, I discovered the power of words to inform, inspire, and unite. From covering school events to delving into investigative pieces, each article became an opportunity to amplify voices, shed light on important issues, and inform others about impactful events.
Through the times that I struggled, crammed for tests when it was too late and rushed to finish due projects, I could find friends who could help and support me. I also knew that the unwavering support of teachers who believed in my potential, along with the friendships forged in classrooms that I attended, made me comfortable knowing that I was surrounded by good people.
As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my journey, I carry with me the lessons learned, the memories cherished, and the friendships forged at Oswego East High School. Though our paths may diverge, the spirit of camaraderie and resilience instilled within us will continue to guide our steps forward. To my fellow classmates and teachers who have shaped my high school experience, I extend my heartfelt gratitude. Farewell, Oswego East High School, thank you for the memories, the lessons, and the enduring sense of community.
Zachary Barnes
Dear Oswego East,
It’s crazy to think that I’m sitting down to write this farewell message. My time at Oswego East High School is coming to an end, and it’s hitting me hard. These halls have been my second home for years, and saying goodbye is tough.
Shoutout to the teachers, staff, and admins who’ve had my back and helped me improve myself on this journey of learning and growing. Your dedication and support have been valuable in shaping me into the person I’ve become. The lessons you’ve dropped, both in and out of class, are real ones that I’ll carry with me.
To my homies, thanks for all the good times, the friendships, and the memories that have made high school lit. From late-night study sessions to encouraging each other up at games, we’ve made memories that’ll stay with me forever. Each one of you has left a mark on me, and I’ll keep those memories close wherever life takes me.
As I gear up to step out into the real world beyond this school, I’m feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. The future’s a mystery, but the lessons I’ve learned here have given me the skills to face whatever’s coming. I’m confident that the knowledge, and skills I’ve picked up at Oswego East High School will set me up for success in whatever’s next.
To the younger students, make the most of your time here. Get in the mix and take risks. High school is all about finding yourself, so jump on every chance that comes your way. Hold tight to the squad you roll with, and never sleep on the power of putting in work and staying strong.
Peace out, Oswego East High School. I’m leaving with a heart full of gratitude for the memories, friendships, and experiences that have shaped me. I’ll always look back on my time here with love and respect.
Zach Barnes
Johnathan Crouch
As I look back at my four years at East, I find it hard to recognize who I once was. While I still enjoy many of the same things, and I haven’t had any major changes to my appearance, my outlook on life has taken a complete 180.
Going into high school I was worried about one thing and one thing only… my grades. In my head, the only point of high school was to score well and prepare for college. But I quickly realized that high school was a place where you can truly find yourself.
After graduating 8th grade, there was no doubt in my mind that I would finish high school with the same friend group while talking to the same people and liking all of the same things. Although some of this was true, I haven’t talked to many of these aforementioned friends since high school started. In fact, I have a completely different friend group composed of people I never expected to talk to.
If I could change one thing about my time at East, I would choose to walk into the first day of class with an open mind. I’ve missed out on so many opportunities simply because I had these preconceived notions about what I could and couldn’t do. It was when I got rid of this mindset that I realized just how many things I’m capable of. Since then I’ve considered future career paths in all different walks of life, and quite honestly I still haven’t decided what I want to do. With that being said, I refuse to rule out any possibilities, because a mind is like a parachute, if it’s not open it won’t work.
Four years ago, I could have never imagined myself in this position, writing for the OeHowl. I’ve always dreaded the idea of having others read and critique my work, but over the past 10 months I’ve realized how powerful and rewarding journalism can be. The OeHowl has given me a platform to show the world through my eyes and no one can take that away from me.
If I hadn’t gone into my senior year with an open mind, I would have never stepped foot in Mr. DiNardo’s room, I would have never formed the friendships I have in his class, and I certainly would have never made the memories I have writing for the OeHowl.
None of this would have been possible if it weren’t for the amazing people I’ve met over the past year. I’m beyond grateful for Mr. DiNardo and his ability to push us out of our comfort zones. For Itzel Gutierrez who is the glue that holds our publication together. And for my friends and family that have led me to where I am today. As I head into my final week at East, I eagerly await my next chapter in life, but I will never forget how much I’ve grown in these four short years.
Sincerely,
Johnny Crouch
Ella Hansel
One thing I’ve come to realize across my high school journey is that there is nothing more significant than love. With love and with encouragement, humans are capable of performing their very best, of which the high school setting is no exception.
I believe that, across my entire life, I had held a surprisingly small amount of care for the world surrounding me. Be it people or schoolwork or careers, in some sense, nothing really mattered. Even in entering high school, I discovered that there was very little that meant enough to me, and I developed a severe pessimistic attitude.
However, if there’s anything I learned in the four years that I spent here, it was not the education itself, but rather, the appreciation. In high school, I met dozens of unique people, and studied various concepts that I had never before been drawn towards. Where I once held distaste for the world, I began to realize that there was more to living past the walls of my bedroom, and that, regardless of the outcome, the destination was not always as heartbreaking as it seemed.
When I look bad at my high school experience, I tend to reflect more on the bad than the good. I didn’t have the greatest luck with people, and found within only my second year that I already had the odds spun against me. For a good portion of my time here, I felt as though I’d fallen into the deepest crevice of my life with little to no exit. I struggled with taking care of myself, or with tackling assignments. Climbing out of bed was the most grueling task of each day, as there was more comfort in the world in my dreams than the one that awaited me.
But still, there was more. Before the bad, there was good, and even afterwards, there was fun. The importance of my situation was not to dwell on my circumstances, but to make light of it and to find a silver lining. In spite of the piling assignments, I was learning. In spite of the negativity, I was having fun. There was always something to push me forwards and keep me praying.
And so, over time, I have learned love. I found appreciation in my friends, in writing, in my pets, in my family, in my studies. I found joy in corners that I’d swore I’d searched before, and grew to make note of the little things. Which, as small as it may seem, is a giant step from my prior self.
The most important factor of it all is the loss. That leaving behind my school of four years is okay, and losing friends is okay, and being turned away or pushed around, as difficult as it is to accept, will happen to everyone eventually. Sad things will always happen, but in the grand scheme of things, they will be incomparable to the greatness that one can achieve. Because “ultimately, it is those who know love that are good, and those who are good that are remembered”.
My mama has always told me that the world puts things in your life for seasons. My high school experience is not eternal, and it was never meant to be. Youth is only the preview to a persons’ lifetime, and is especially insignificant with the experiences meant to uncover. But still, high school managed to teach me to find happiness, and showed me how much love in the world there actually is.
I hold no resentment for the path I have taken. If I were to go back and change it all, I would never even dream of it. Life is not perfect, and it is not achievable. But it’s the presence of the bad that makes the good shine through even brighter.
And if there’s anything else that my time here has taught me, it’s that I am the BIGGEST procrastinator ever. Help.
-Sincerely, Ellar ! =^.^=
Benjamin Heuberger
As I sit down to type this letter, a wave of nostalgia washes over me, accompanied by a tinge of bittersweet emotion. It’s hard to believe that our time together has come to an end. These past four years have been a whirlwind of experiences, growth, and memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.
High school, You’ve been more than just a place for learning. You’ve been a sanctuary where friendships were forged, dreams were nurtured, and identities were shaped. From the bustling hallways to the quiet corners of the library, each space holds a treasure trove of moments that have defined my journey.
I am grateful for the teachers who have challenged me to think critically, pushed me to reach my full potential, and inspired me to pursue my passions. Your dedication and commitment have left an indelible mark on my mind and heart, shaping me into the person I am today.
To my classmates, you have been my companions through the highs and lows of adolescence. We laughed together, cried together, and celebrated each other’s victories. The bonds we’ve formed will withstand the test of time, regardless of where our paths may lead us.
High school, you’ve taught me more than just academic lessons. You’ve taught me resilience in the face of adversity, perseverance in pursuit of my goals, and the importance of embracing diversity and conclusion. These lessons extend far beyond the confines of your walls and will serve as guiding principles as I navigate the journey ahead.
As I prepare to embark on the next chapter of my life, I carry with me a sense of excitement and anticipation for the adventures that await. But I also carry a profound gratitude for the foundation you have provided me. You’ve equipped me with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to pursue my dreams and make a difference in the world.
High school, you’ve been my home away from home, a place where I discovered my strengths, overcame my fears, and found my voice. As I turn the page to a new chapter, I carry with me the lessons learned within your walls and the memories that will forever shape who I am. Though our time together may be ending, the impact you have left on my life will endure, guiding me as I chart my course into the unknown. Thank you for the journey, the growth, and the countless memories.
Though I may be leaving you halls behind, the memories we’ve created together will forever hold a special place in my heart. Thank you, high school, for the laughter, the tears, the friendships, and the lessons. As I bid you farewell, I do so with a mixture of sadness for the end of an era and excitement for the new beginnings that lie ahead.
With gratitude and fond memories,
Ben
Katelin Hong
Joining the google meet for my first high school class, I was relieved I could hide behind a screen. My teacher attempted to stir up a conversation by asking us about our favorite ice cream flavors, but with each awkward response, I could only imagine how much worse I would feel if I was experiencing that in person. Despite all of my teachers’ unsuccessful attempts at fostering socialization in their classes, I am lucky to say that I thrived during online school. I had my own computer, a quiet room to work in, and I was able to stay focused during my classes (except for the occasional naps toward the end of the year). In my eyes, online school was a win. My last online class ended at 12:20 pm instead of 2:26 pm, and I could wake up at seven instead of six.
Alone in all of my classes and struggling academically, my transition to in-person school during my sophomore year was as miserable as I imagined. Being tired and stressed left me in the trenches, but I later discovered that I was not alone. In people I barely knew, I found friends who wanted to lift me up. Lana Alnajm and Manya Srivastava would not allow me to fail, supporting me through each academic challenge I faced. But beyond school, they became my people. Next year, I will miss ranting about Formula 1, going to Sparrow after school, escaping to Manya’s house for dinner everyday, and laughing at the Morning Brew. In college, we will be separated by 850 miles. Still, I have a feeling that our friendship will stretch that distance. Afterall, dumb instagram reels can travel anywhere in the world. Lana and Manya, to ensure that we don’t lose each other, meet me in Sweden in five years, and don’t forget your real estate licenses.
What would have surprised my freshman self the most about my high school experience is the genuine support I received from my teachers. I am so fortunate that all of the teachers I had at Oswego East truly wanted to see their students succeed.
Mr. Chandler, you have seen my highest highs and my lowest lows on the golf course, but you cheer for me no matter what. Thank you for always rooting for me.
Ms. DiPrima, in your class I got to set sail with Santiago, chase an American dream with Lennie and George, and stumble around New York City with Holden. Still, the experiences I treasure the most are the ones in which I got to talk with you and our class. We had the best group to have both the greatest laughs and the most meaningful conversations. Thank you for the beautiful community you created for us in your 6th period AP Lang class. Most of all, thank you for cheering for me even after I was no longer your student.
Ms. Korczak, my future looks nothing like I imagined it would four years ago. Now, it appears to exist in the world of engineering, filled with passion and creativity, and I cannot thank you enough for opening my eyes to this opportunity. You have given me so much the past three years, and you are one of the adults I admire the most. I aspire to become as kind, patient, and generous as you.
Saying goodbye the next four months will undoubtedly hurt. I will likely never see the same people again. My life will never be as it is now.
My room will never be mine again. When I come home from college, my dog may bark at me thinking I’m a stranger. Moving from the middle of a corn field to New York City, I will long for the peace that dwells in my hometown. I will miss Mr. Johnson’s rants about his latest birding adventures in eco club, Ms. Fichter’s Friends Fridays, and frantically preparing for Science Olympiad competitions on a Friday night with my friends.
Big goodbyes are inevitable, and my first one is here. Oswego East, thank you for every person and experience you gifted me. I couldn’t have asked for a better high school experience. Until next time, this is my goodbye.
Much love,
Katelin
Max Keehma
While time has flown by, throughout the four years I’ve walked the halls of Oswego East as a student, there have been so many key moments in my life that have been shared with the people and teachers I’ve met here.
Attending spoken word club throughout high school and taking creative writing and spoken word class my junior year, I want to say a genuine and heartfelt thank you to Mr. Ochoa and the spoken word team. Without Ochoa, I wouldn’t have ever submitted any of my poetry pieces and never would have gotten published. He not only encouraged me to submit to different competitions but further helped develop my writing and tone of voice throughout. He has played a vital role in developing my self-confidence as a writer, as well as helping me learn about myself. I’ve made so many amazing memories with him and the poetry team throughout the years, leading me to make some lifelong friends.
From a very nervous freshman who started high school online, to a now graduating senior in person, it’s been rough, but fun and challenging too. Junior year was very difficult for me, having been diagnosed with POTS when I was 15, it’s always been there, growing up with me. I want to thank the nurses of Oswego East who have helped me and been there every time I have a flare. Without them, high school would have been challenging to work through and teach me new things about how to take care of it.
These four years of high school have been monumental building blocks for my identity, self-expression, achievements, relationships, and friendships. I was able to learn and discover more critical parts of myself and who I am as a person due to the personal encouragement from my friends and teachers.
Some of my biggest achievements over the last four years were having the opportunity to be published in The America Library of Poetry, through the governor of Illinois, having my pieces showcased in Oswego’s park, and having my pieces submitted to the local literary festival with other schools. All of these moments have validated my struggles as a writer and helped me gain confidence and motivation to improve my writing ability.
The people I currently hold closest to me have all been friends I’ve met in school. A heartfelt thank you you to my friends and to my boyfriend who make my day a little brighter And a thank you to my “school friends”, even if we may not be close to each other outside of a school environment, I want to thank everyone I talk to at school for making the class more enjoyable and bearable for being around. For everyone I have talked to over the years of walking and talking in the halls of Oswego East, thank you. I look forward to walking the stage and moving forward into the new chapter of my life.
Sincerely,
Max Keehma
Aiden Moriarty
As I stand on the verge of graduation, looking at a photo album full of memories of all my school years, laughter, and growth from Oswego East reminds me. These four years have been a whirlwind of experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today.
High school has been a journey of self-discovery and learning, from freshman year’s nervous excitement to senior year’s confident stride. It’s not just about grades and grades, it’s about the friendships, challenges, and moments that define our high school experience.
One of the best parts of high school was the friendships made along the way. My classmates have become like a second family, from sharing common interests to bonding and supporting each other through difficult times. Whether it’s cheering each other on at sporting events or spending the night together studying, these moments create lasting memories.
Of course, high school wouldn’t be the same without the amazing teachers and staff who guided us every step of the way. Their commitment, encouragement, and passion for teaching did not go unnoticed. They not only impart knowledge but also instill in us values such as persistence, honesty, and empathy, which will serve us well in the future.
As I prepare to finish, I feel a mixture of excitement and nostalgia. The future holds endless possibilities, and even though it’s scary, I know that Oswego East has prepared me well for what’s to come. Whether I’m going to college, starting a career, or pursuing a passion, I carry with me the lessons and friendships I learned during those formative years.
As we put on our hats and say goodbye to high school, let’s cherish the memories we’ve made and take the spirit of Oswego East with us wherever we go. We laughed, learned, and grew together and that bond will always bind us wherever life takes us.
Here’s to the Class of 2024 – may our future be bright, our hearts full of memories, and our journey ahead filled with success, happiness, and endless adventures. Oswego East, thank you for the incredible memories and the foundation for a bright future.
Jack Polkow
I have learned so many lessons and important things during my high school career. It is crazy to think that these amazing 4 years are coming to an end next week. I would not be in this position today if it was not for all of my teachers and classmates.
I am very excited for my future as I will be attending Illinois State next year. I will be majoring in communications and minoring in journalism. I hope to be doing something in the sports world after college. My dream job is a sports journalist for one of the Chicago professional teams.
My first impression of Oswego East had me asking if I was going to have to go through high school in online classes for all four years. Doing classes online during covid-19 really took a toll on me as I absolutely hated online classes. I did not get to meet anybody my entire freshman year and that was definitely my biggest struggle that I went through during my high school career.
Math was also a struggle for me all four years of high school. I want to personally thank all of my math teachers for allowing me to come in before and after school for extra help when I needed it almost every week.
My favorite memories from this school were the football and basketball games. Our student section always brought the energy and it was very fun to be a part of it. The run that the basketball team went on last year was something that I will never forget. Unfortunately the season ended with a loss in the super-sectionals but that was such a fun season to watch and attend.
I think one of the things that stands out to me during my time here is from my first couple weeks I was in this school, I was not saying hi to anyone in the halls because I barely knew anybody. Now in my final week at this school, I feel like I am saying hi to every other person I see here. I think that just goes to show the impact that Oswego East has had on me and how I have improved as a person.
This journalism class has been such a great experience all year and it is a class where you can go everyday to kind of take your mind off of things and interact with friends. Mr. DiNardo has been the best teacher and made this period so fun everyday.
I want to thank Mr. Green, Mr. DiNardo, Mr. Hettinger, and Mr. Sadek for making my time here so enjoyable. I also want to thank everyone who I have met at this school. Everyone has made me so happy to attend this school. Thank you Oswego East for the most memorable 4 years!
Congratulations to the senior staff of the Howl and congratulations to all of the 2024 senior graduates!
Good luck in all that you do!