It’s a bittersweet feeling leaving this town behind. The easy going, laid back lifestyle Hermosa and Manhattan provided is something you can’t find anywhere else. Going off to college and leaving the beach behind as I step into city territory has not hit me quite yet. I have always loved to travel and be close to my family, so going to college in London wasn’t an idea anyone could talk me out of. I knew I had to leave the bubble, so while I’m at it why don’t I just leave the whole country! By attending Richmond, American University London, I will not only get an education while living somewhere completely different, all at the age of 18, but I will also be close to my family which means a lot to me.
Though I have only had the pleasure of being a part of this amazing program for one year, La Vista staff and the class itself has taught me so much. I remember scrolling through the class selections trying to choose what elective best would suit me. I knew I wanted to do something I really would love for my last year here at Costa. Given that writing has always had my heart — from essays, creative writing, research, and argumentative — I became more curious about what journalism would entail. When I read more about the class and asked around, I knew I had to join! I could not wait to let my thoughts run wild as my fingers hit the keys producing something new and great.
From the beginning, the staff was super encouraging and welcoming. They gave me positive feedback on my stories, providing me with new tips so I could improve for the next issue. It’s such a great feeling putting so much work into a piece and then getting to see it on page for hundreds of students, staff and teachers to read. This class not only taught me how to write in a journalistic style, but how to communicate with my editors and take their edits into consideration. You learn quickly how to take their creative criticism and apply it to make your story even better.
Not only did my La Vista class teach me so much, my overall highschool experience is something I won’t forget. I was lucky enough to be on the Mira Costa Cheer team all four years, two of them I was both JV and Varsity Captain. I love cheer because of the memories and people that came with it. I met some of my best friends on that team and learned life lessons that will forever stick with me. Having the opportunity to compete in nationals in Orlando, Florida was a very special moment for me. Getting to travel and then perform alongside my teammates with intense bright lights shining on our sweaty faces is something I will miss the most.
Mira Costa is really such a special place. I have learned so much and really had a great four years. The amount of classes, clubs and sports that Costa offers acts as a guide in order to help kids find their passions. Because of these programs, kids have a place where they can let go of all their worries and be a part of something they love. If it wasn’t for the cheer team and my writing classes, I don’t think I would have been half the person I am proud to say I am today. Because of all of Costa’s support, I am super excited to carry on my education in London where I will be majoring in Social Media and Communications at Richmond, American University London. I wouldn’t be this confident going to another country if I didn’t think this school had prepared me. Through all the experiences, life lessons, friendships and memories I have made at Costa, I am confident in taking this next step in my life.
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