You can only have one: Rose’s caramel corn, an ice cream cone from Jersey Junction, or a Yesterdog. Which do you choose?
Ice cream cone from Jersey Junction, no doubt. Specifically the coffee flavored ice cream.
What are your plans after graduation?
I will be attending Western Michigan University in the fall and I plan to major in psychology! I will be in school for quite a while because I want to get a doctorate degree, but afterward I’d like to move out of Michigan.
What have you learned in East that will enable you to be successful?
I have learned really great people skills. Coming into high school I was very nervous and not very talkative. Finishing senior year I can tell you I’m the complete opposite and I have developed great problem solving skills as well.
What were you like in school?
Freshman and sophomore year I was very nervous and anxious. Junior and senior year I have been very social and positive. I have always been a hard worker.
Did you have a favorite teacher or class?
My favorite teacher is Mr. Szpeig, I went into detail about why on my senior survey, but he is extremely real, helpful, positive, and hardworking. I really appreciate how much he does for his students and you can really tell how much time he puts into his craft. He does endless research and makes so many modifications to provide satisfaction for his students, he is the poster child of a good teacher.
If you had to choose one moment in one location to serve as the signature moment of your East school experience, what would it be?
I would say either any home football game in the stands as a student at East, or giving a speech for Bruce before his departure in front of the entire school, staff, and several community members would serve as the signature moment from my experience at East.
What do you know now that you wish you’d known when you were younger?
School-wise, teachers are very understanding. They are human too. Be kind to your teachers and if you are struggling ask for help. They want you to succeed and there is absolutely nothing wrong with being acquainted with your teacher, if anything it makes both your lives easier. In general, BE KIND TO EVERYONE! You NEVER know what someone is going through, in fact everyone is going through their own hardships whether they are “easy” in your eyes or not. Reach out, make as many friends as possible. It’s really not that hard and will benefit you as well as others.
Who from East do you think you’ll stay in touch with in the future?
I hope to stay in touch with a handful of people from my grade! I got along with a variety of people so I really hope we can reunite in the future!
What advice do you have for young East kids?
Be kind, ask for help if you need it, use guidance counselors for your advantage (they are there to help!!), and clean up after yourself!! School is like a second home. Treat it kindly and don’t take anything for granted.
Bonus question: What are you glad we didn’t ask you about?
I’m glad you didn’t ask any negative questions such as, “What was your least favorite part/memory?” or, “Who or what would you change about East?” Those are hard questions to answer especially online when you can’t make out our tone and we aren’t able to have a real discussion about it.
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