My life, so far: Lacey O’Neal

My life, so far: Lacey ONeal

Lacey O'Neal, Staff Reporter

As a freshman, my first feelings about high school were full of intimidation. The best thing I could have done was been completely confident. But, now a sophomore, I am still thinking in that mentality.

The things that make high school tough and people explode are letting others get in their head. So, full confidence of yourself and your success is key.

Being a freshman has been stereotypically named the worst year, but I wish I was told that it really isn’t that bad. Just go with the flow of the school while continuing to become your own person and find out who you are while taking the first step in your journey through high school.

Even though I am only in my second year, I can see a huge difference in myself from the first. One major factor was my change in schools this semester from Beyer High in Modesto to Tracy High.

I wish in my freshman year I was more involved with the school, since Fridays, spirit days, are a huge deal at Beyer. Not building homecoming floats or being a part of the school spirit are my biggest regrets, especially because I am no longer there.

Just being myself and gaining real friends are what would’ve really mattered last year. Thankfully, though, I have found that.

However, my biggest accomplishments that I am very proud of are the amount of hard work and effort I have put in to my everyday life. Getting good grades and doing my best to excel, blossoming from freshman year, have helped shape who I am.

The times I was involved with my school, as in sports and clubs, have proven to be life changing. Volleyball is a huge part of my life, and I am so excited for memories that are yet to be made.

These next couple years of high school will further shape my life. I hope to continue what I am already doing and then some.

I can’t wait for new learning experiences that will help me find my true self.

Although I still have two more years to go in high school, I have a pretty good plan for my future. College is definitely a priority.

Attending the University of California, Los Angeles is a dream of mine and I have tried my best to achieve that goal. Unlike what my academics have suggested, I aspire to become an interior designer. The program at UCLA is highly accredited by the CIDA (Council for Interior Design Accreditation) and would be a great environment for my studies.

Eventually, I hope to make a career out of that passion of mine and build my own business with it. Many people expect me to pursue a career in the medical field or some other high profession, but I would much rather live the rest of my life knowing I have sought out my passion and worked less doing it.

High school has been a journey so far, and I am pleased with the current results. The rest is yet to come, and I feel completely prepared.