A goodbye from the senior editors
Keerthana
First off, I would like to address the elephant in the room. There may be some of you who are surprised to see my name here on the senior page. It’s true; I am not a freshman (contrary to popular belief).
Every morning for the majority of the past four years I’ve woken up to the jolting sound of my alarm, pulled myself out of bed (harder than it sounds), and left for school (or walked two feet to my desk). I’ll have to be honest, there were times when I’d say that I hated school. Usually, this was exclaimed in a fit of stress and sleep deprivation (and mostly directed toward my feelings about writing papers). So, maybe I should correct myself. I don’t hate school. I do dislike anything starting in ‘home’ and ending in ‘work,’ but other than that, I really do love school. School means the people, environment, friends, teachers, mentors, clubs, sports, activities, and so much more. West has given me so many memories and for that I can say I do love school.
Of the memories I’ve made at West, being a part of the Index has of course stood out. I started writing for the award-winning newspaper as a wee freshman, timidly conducting interviews for features and community stories, and being extremely confused and frustrated when reading the final story in the paper and recognizing only 10% of it as my own. (I now have a greater understanding of this: it is called ‘editing and revising.’ Crazy). Despite my vast lack of knowledge for what actually goes on in the Index, I decided to apply to be an editor at the end of my freshman year. The interview ended with a question from one of the seniors regarding whether or not I had thick skin, because one must have thick skin in order to survive Mr. Scott’s remarks. I brushed it off, confidently saying I did have thick skin. This was a lie. But all was okay, because my fear of what Mr. Scott’s remarks would do to my thin skin were completely irrational. I know for a fact that Mr. Scott is one of the most patient people. He had to have been with me being an editor and completely not knowing what to do at first. But, over the years, the Index has given me so much to be thankful for and allowed me to meet people I never would have before.
This past year as a senior editor has been especially memorable. The hard work this staff has put into creating this award-winning newspaper is truly admirable. And now, you’re currently holding the last issue these seniors will ever have a part in. I know your page is now probably soaked in tears, so I’ll make the ending quick with a thank you. Thank you to my teachers, friends, and family. Thank you, West. Thank you, God, for all the grace You’ve given me over the years. See you in the next chapter, Wildcats.
Zade
Oh, how time flies. It feels like yesterday when I first started writing for the Index. Too often we find ourselves looking to the future, but never really cherish the moment we are in right now.
Life will take us all in different directions, and as we grow older, each moment, each year, will only become more diluted. But that is not the case with these last four years. It is often too hard to say goodbye, but saying goodbye provides us with the opportunity to try new things, and grow out of our shell that we currently call our lives, for it is the memories we create that will shape who we are.
Looking back at these last four years I am humbled by all the things I have learned, and honored by all the great people I have met. Mr. Scott, I don’t think I will ever meet a better teacher, your level of expertise and knowledge has had a big impact on who I am today, and I’d like to thank you for that.
Now we begin the next chapter of our lives, eager to embark on new journeys, experience new things. It has been my utmost pleasure to be a part of such a distinguished group, growing together, learning together, and laughing together. I wish all of my Index colleagues the best of luck in future endeavors.
“Don’t be dismayed at goodbyes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.”
Isabelle
For the last week, I’ve thought about what to write for this article and just kept coming up blank. I thought about mentioning all the memories from Index: tier lists with Jack, getting destroyed by Joe in “Are you smarter than a 5th grader,” or just Zade… being Zade. I also thought of using this opportunity as a thank you: thank you to Mr. Scott for letting me grow my photography skills, thank you Cora for the endless cupcakes, and thank you to all the editors for letting me learn and grow along with them. Or, this could be a recruiting opportunity: join the award-winning newspaper to be a part of a great community that looks great on resumes. More important than that is what the Index has given to me beyond 1st place ribbons and resume boosters. The Index has allowed me to feel as if I am a part of something special. I entered high school being afraid of what my path would turn out like. For anyone, entering high school is like entering a world of unknowns. You're unsure about friends, teachers, and new experiences like school dances or advanced classes. When I joined Index as an editor my junior year, all of those areas seemed complete. I had upperclassmen to help with those hard classes and along the way many friendships were created no matter the age, social group, or position. I would recommend Index to anyone, but I think even bigger than that would be to tell people just to get involved in ways that make you happy. Having a feeling of belonging is worth taking a leap of faith (which I understand can be nerve-racking) into a new situation that will create memories to remember for a lifetime.
Emma
If I would give advice for any underclassmen it would be: have no regrets. I know I have a few from my high school career. I should’ve gone to more than one football game. I should’ve had the confidence to try out for musicals and madrigals sooner. But one regret I don’t have was getting involved in Index freshman year. Yes, my mom kinda pressured me to do it, but it was probably the best thing I could’ve done.
I talked with a few editors and they said that they wished they would’ve joined sooner, and I am so glad I did. True, joining was a little scary. But here, now, I wouldn’t change it for anything. Index was truly like a home away from home. Being in Index taught me how to be a leader, how to be confident in myself, and how to work with others I never would’ve met anywhere else. I will truly miss being a part of the Index.
I will miss all the 7th hour rants, drinking chocolate milk out of a bowl, late night productions which lead to hilarious stunts and talks, decorating the Index office and having the Christmas decor up until April, and the really yummy food feasts (in a normal year). I will also miss all the friends I have made because Index truly has become like a second family to me.
Honestly, I can’t believe high school is over already. Phew. Onto the next chapter.
I also want to thank all the teachers who made high school more bearable. Shout out to Mrs. Meyer, Mrs. Brydon, Mrs. Karoses, and Mrs. Geffers. I also want to thank Mr. Scott for letting me be a part of this award-winning family.
Good luck to all you seniors!
Caitlynn
In freshman year, my mom suggested that I start writing for the Index. She thought I would like it since I used to write my own stories all the time when I was younger. At the time, the idea of doing any more writing outside of my required classwork was extremely unappealing to me. More writing, with deadlines and requirements, in my free time? Gross. No thanks.
But in junior year, I decided to give it a shot. After seeing the entire story list and realizing there was more to the newspaper than doing interviews and writing news stories, seeing that I could write about movies that excited me, I was hooked. I signed up for a review of IT: Chapter Two, wrote the story in less than a week, and the rest is history. Well, recent history, but still history.
Unfortunately, unlike many of the other senior editors this year, I don’t have a lot of stories from being in the Index. I definitely should have listened to my mom 3 years ago because I really do wish I had joined earlier. I may not have gotten the entire Index experience this year, but the bit I did get (cupcakes and NEWSPA and a couple in-person productions and conversations in the Index office during 7th hour) is something that will stick with me for a long time.
So thank you Mr. Scott and all of the editors for allowing me to join the Index family. You all helped make my senior year the best it could have been, even with the crazy stuff that’s been going on, and I am incredibly grateful for that.
Joe:
As Mr. Scott will tell you, I am not the best with introductions, so I’ll just start from the beginning. I always wanted to join the newspaper, starting from the beginning of freshman year. Once I finally went to a meeting, I was astonished by the level of passion and enthusiasm the editors delivered. As spring rolled around and I had written for the paper a few times, one of the editors told me I should apply to be on the editorial board for my sophomore year. While I was intimidated, I jumped at the chance to apply and one morning before school, I got a letter saying I would be a new editor for the features section. While I was excited, I also knew this was going to be a challenge. I got to my first production and since then I have loved being an editor. Throughout my time at Index, I have been able to edit for the features, sports, and opinion sections.
I have grown immensely as a writer and a person in general, and Index has really helped to push me out of my comfort zone. Becoming an editor really helped me improve not only my writing, but my work ethic. My communication skills have increased so much from doing interviews and these skills have also made me a more confident person. I have met tons of people who I have become friends with because of Index and this experience helped me to connect with some amazing people, and also gave me a place at West. Thank you Mr.Scott and thank you to all the wonderful people I got to work with in Index, BOOM.
Javit
What a horrible year. That cannot be understated. But despite that, the Index and us as seniors have prevailed. It seems silly to say I’m glad this year happened, but that’s the whole and honest truth. Sure, I would have liked to interact with my friends more often and have a regular senior experience, but I also would likely not be as strong or confident as I am today without the crises of the pandemic.
This year has made me think and learn a lot more about mental health and how really important it is. Western medicine can solve so many physical problems we have today. Have a broken bone? We know how to care for and fix that. Have a missing leg? We can replace that with a metal leg and you’ll be walking in no time. Have a malfunctioning heart which is fragile and vital to human survival? We can literally remove your heart and replace it with a new one and keep you alive! We have medicine to solve thousands and thousands of medical problems. The one thing we just can’t get a grasp on is the brain and mental illnesses. We can’t replace the brain and there is no medicine that will just cure a mental illness or trauma. Western medicine expects instant gratification but that’s just not possible. There’s a huge stigma and misunderstanding of mental health and treatment. Don’t forget it, kids.
As the school year begins to dwindle down, I’ve realized this year has made me much more conscious of the things around me and more aware of who I am myself. And thanks to the wackiness, I can confidently say I’m a better person. Thank you to all the wonderful teachers, friends, and family. Thank you Mr. Scott. Thanks Index. The people of Index are really quite excellent people, and the experience is something I’ve learned lots from. I’m generally quiet but I’ll miss the banter and the atmosphere.The future holds bright though! There’s so many cool things to do or things possible and I’m so excited!
Sage
I’ve walked the halls of Oshkosh West for four years now and it seems bizarre to only have days left of my Senior year. It brings tears to my eyes to really think about it. I mean really think. I’ve pushed all feelings of sadness towards growing up away, but now, I’m being forced to face it. I can’t say I’ll never see my peers again after high school. However, I’ll never see my peers the way they are now. Everyone will change, it’s inevitable, but also beautiful.
I joined Index at the end of my junior year and I wished I joined sooner. You might think Mr. Scott paid me to say that one, but it’s true. I really do love it. I have learned skills and lessons that I would not have learned otherwise. First, I confidently know how to run a website, which is pretty cool. Because of the pandemic, every single one of us had to step up and make our issues completely online! Second, I learned that it takes a village. Nothing the Index does could be done without all of the brilliant minds that create it. Thank you Index for giving me those brilliant minds as my friends.
I also would like to take this opportunity to brag. Not about myself, but about the entire class of 2021. I am proud of all of us. We have stuck together through thick and thin. We excel in academics, wow have I always been amazed. We are teammates on fields or courts. We are kind and strong. I will always speak highly of my graduating class, without a doubt. Whether it’s the friends I met in kindergarten or the friends I met this year, you all rock.
Once a wildcat, always a wildcat.
Abe
Despite masks, social distancing and the absence of food, I will never forget my senior year at the Index. From online issues to paper issues, to even a magnificent colorized issue, we as a staff remained resilient in our passion of journalism. Some of the best stories, photos, and cartoons were created this year, earning us the oh-so-sweet blue ribbon at the NEWSPA awards ceremony. Personally, I had the most fun this year than any other in highschool, and Index was a huge part of it. Making new friends and having new editors come in who coincidentally were some of my best friends and favorite people to be around, made production an exciting and productive experience for me. Printing the paper every month and watching the masses of mesmerized Oshkosh West students enjoy the headlines, articles, and graphics made my day every time. With this as the last issue of not only the year but also my Index career, I will cherish the moment I grab the top paper from the stack in homeroom and relish in our creation, just as I cherished every moment of every production. Meetings, deep conversations, delicious dinners, playing hangman, throwing the football, watching films, editing photos, creating cartoons, and being around my second family. Thank you Index. It has been my absolute pleasure.
Akash
Control, for the most part, is an illusion. I think it’s a painful lesson that we all learn throughout high school, and for me, one of the most important lessons I’ve learned both as an Index editor and a student overall. This past year is an obvious example of that, with the pandemic and all. All of us, in some way, had our hopes shattered and our plans thwarted. But a pandemic is a once-in-a-century event, and sooner rather than later, we’ll be able to put it behind us. Besides, there are more than enough other crazy world events around us to make us feel sadly insignificant. Writing spreads for the Index the last two years about topics ranging from school shootings to human trafficking and the politically-charged 2020 election cycle definitely made me feel that smallness: who am I, a mere high school student, to be writing about things way outside of my league?
But in the end, current events don’t always directly affect us. It’s the more mundane things that take the greatest toll. The smaller frustrations of having multiple tests, sports games, concerts, work shifts, and other activities all within a few days (for me, this includes the monthly three-day Index productions. Who doesn’t love the constant cycle of brainstorm, interview, write, revise, waste time in-between, and repeat?). The workload piles up, but time runs out.
So, we can’t control COVID-19, we can’t control current events, and we can’t control the schedules that school, extracurriculars, and bosses push onto us. The illusion is powerful and all-encompassing. Inevitably, it leads to the question: why even bother trying when all our plans can be changed against our will?
We should care, of course, because of this cliché: the one thing we have control over is ourselves and our decisions. We can decide how well we organize and manage our precious time, how hard we study, what extracurriculars we pursue, what jobs we take on, and much more. And in the midst of all the chaos, we can choose to accept the guidance and advice of all the great teachers, staff, and administrators (including of course, Mr. Trent Scott, Supreme Arbiter of Index and connoisseur of Christ figures) to make the best decisions, and make the best of the results. This lesson is even more important than the illusion of control: take advantage of opportunities and be content with controlling what you can. This is something that has taken me too long to learn, but hey, better late than never.
William Ernest Henley said it best in “Invictus:”
I am the master of my fate,
I am the captain of my soul.
Marty
This academic year was certainly an odd one. Many days I would spend attached to my Chromebook for virtual classes, where oftentimes the most entertaining moment of class would be the accidental unmute, or the occasional flurry of pets in the background of a classmate’s video. Much of my life was sucked into a computer screen and life became more mundane by the day, but amidst my schedule one activity stuck out: the Index.
I joined the Index as an editor just this one year, but I had always wanted to give Index a try throughout my time here at West. I can safely say that after a year of writing, editing, and arranging: I am glad that I joined.
While virtual learning affected Index just as it did with every other club, I was still able to meet people who were equally enthusiastic about being in a group for their final year of high school. When we were able to join in-person, I truly got the full experience: from tier list-making in Mr. Scott’s room, to Joe’s snarky wisdom, and one of the more ecstatic award ceremonies I have ever been a part of.
I am so glad to have worked with every member of the Index staff. It has sincerely been a pleasure to work with a group of people so talented in different ways. I know that my own abilities have greatly benefited from constant enthusiasm and direction from my peers.
I leave all continuing high school students with one piece of advice for their future year(s): step out of your comfort zone. Get to know your clubs a little better. It will only do you good. And for all seniors this year, I wish you the best in your lifetime expeditions. Peace and love.
Hannah
I just have to say wow... that went so fast! The past 4 years have been filled with some of the best memories (even though our class has had many interesting experiences). I am really looking forward to the next two years at Fox Valley Technical College and can’t wait to see where God is going to take me in my career and in life. I look forward to seeing where everyone else ends up as well!
Looking back on my time at West I have to say I am so thankful that I got to be a part of the Oshkosh West Index and had the opportunity to work with an amazing team and group of people. When I became the graphics editor my sophomore year, it was nerve-racking. I had no previous experience and was not confident about communicating with others. But joining the Index helped me become more confident in myself and now Mr. Scott calls me “Hannah Magic” (honestly the best part of my day!). I learned so much from Index: how to problem solve, work with others, meet deadlines, and so much more. These last 3 years in Index gave me a ‘home’ in school when I didn’t fit in. I knew I could come to the office during 7th hour or lunch and spend time with the best people and have the best conversations ever.
I want to say thank you to Mr. Scott for being the best teacher, Index advisor and mentor. The last 3 years have been so fun and I can not thank you enough for everything you have done for the Index and the editors. I will miss you guys, and I wish you (seniors) the best of luck next year.
Abby
Thinking back to my freshman year, walking through those two huge doors into a sea of fish that I did not want to swim among, little freshman Abby is nothing like Abby writing this today. I was scared and lonely on the first day, but that quickly changed as I learned more about who I was and who ‘my people’ were by exploring and challenging myself whenever I could.
My mom dragged me to the newspaper sign up sheet during the new clubs night, and I had no idea what I was in for. Memories flood through my mind as I look back on what that signature had brought me: long but rewarding production weekends, Grace’s lefse rants, 7th hour questions of the day, eating my lunch on a futon, interviewing people I would have otherwise never met, learning and relearning how to use InDesign each production..., flaunting the beloved Index hall pass, and MANY shared laughs over inside jokes.
I have learned many do’s and don’ts during my time with the paper and as my advice for anyone thinking to join, feel free to learn from my experience... DO have your stories ready before production, DON’T wait to write until Thursday, DO spice up your writing with descriptive words, DON’T use alliteration in titles because Scott will come for you, DO bring food regularly to production, DON'T forget how to spell a last name, DO make sure you are recording your interviews, DON'T forget to check and lose all of the audio, DO join Index, DON'T hesitate.
In all seriousness, I have learned how to write with intention, teach with patience, and lead with humility within this experience, and these lessons will stay with me as I walk out of those doors. I have met some of my best friends in the newspaper office, and look fondly over our shared experiences that have brought so much joy. I would like to thank Mr. Scott for sharing his passions with us, and teaching me so many lessons not only about grammar, literature, or even journalism, but about life and how to navigate the waters of the world outside of the classroom. Thank you Index for all you have done and will continue to do.
Drew
Joining the Index was the one of the best decisions I’ve made this year. Even though this was an oddball year, I thought I had somewhat of authentic Index experience. With this year being my first year, I had little to no idea what to expect, I thought I was way over my head being a new editor. But that didn’t matter. The whole Index family brought me in with open arms and I had a great year. I could not have done anything without my partner in crime, Zade. Zade showed me the ropes of production and had a great time doing it. From trips to Culvers to grinding out stories, I wouldn’t have wanted to end my high school career with anyone else.
Maria
I have never been very good with “goodbye’s,” but I’d like to think this is a “see you later!” As sad as it is to be leaving my hometown, I look forward to moving in at my dorm at UW-La Crosse and meeting new people! I’ve had so many great memories in high school and with the pandemic canceling parts of my junior and senior year, it taught me to be more grateful for the time I spend with others. I am especially thankful for all the hard work and dedication made by Mr. Scott and my fellow editors to continue the production of The Index, all the amazing macaroons and cupcakes brought, and ultimately, taking 1st place at the NEWSPA conference (woo!) I am so glad that I joined The Index (although I wished I had joined sooner) and created some more great memories with friends!
My 4 years in highschool have taught me so many things, varying from working hard on assignments to having the courage to talk to someone new to battling some of the worst senioritis I have ever seen. The CAPP and AP courses I took were definitely a nightmare, but I learned what it meant to take on a challenge and push myself to be better. Being in Global Academy enhanced my Spanish-speaking abilities and my knowledge of other cultures around the world. Playing music in band class for 7 years taught me how to work as a team and how to take pride in what I do, as well as my endless cravings for doughnuts and the pizza parties Mr. Singer and Mr. Wilson provided for us. Last, but not least, there’s Index. Joining this team to create our award-winning newspaper allowed me to be more involved with the school and knowledgeable about what is happening in our community. I created a bond with people that I normally wouldn’t have talked to and without realizing it, I became a part of a family. Thank you all for the great experiences I’ve had!
Jack
The talented individuals who belong to the Index brand are a breed of their own. The intelligence of these students on our staff as well as our fearless leader, Mr. Trent Scott, shaped my mindset throughout my four years at Oshkosh West. A mindset that never gives up at the doorstep of challenge. The creative and pure-hearted people who give up numerous weekends to pour their heart and soul into their craft go beyond the expectations of typical high school students. The sacrifice and commitment often goes unseen for the production of an issue, but is always rewarding for the entire staff. Just like Mr. Scott always says, “we play hard, but we work even harder.” Couldn’t have said it better than that. The award-winning Index is a trophy in and of itself. I am honored to have been a small piece to a beautifully orchestrated organization, and to have had the opportunity to bond with the editors of past and present years. It’s the small moments during production, or listening to students talk about our work in the paper that makes the sacrifice that much more worth it. The Index isn’t just a newspaper, it’s a family, a family that lasts for eternity. Adapt or die.
Grace
I recently received a letter from my eighth grade self, and I would say that baby Grace would be very confused about who I have become. I have accomplished many things that I never dreamed possible, but also made some unexpected decisions, and encountered some unforeseen obstacles.
High school was a roller coaster, to say the least. Even though I am very excited to move on to bigger things, I am thankful for all of the memories that I have made. The stress of high school was definitely prevalent, but my best advice for all of you is to find a healthy coping mechanism. Unfortunate and inevitable as it is, stress is a big part of high school, and it has taken me a long time to figure out how to manage my time effectively. I hope you all are able to discover what works best for you!
On a higher note, high school has also brought about some of the happiest times of my life. Ranging from elaborate viking hairstyles to tear-filled conversations to Scott’s Facebook videos to making snowmen in the courtyard, Index has made for an extremely odd, but memorable experience. I cannot express how much I love the people that I have spent countless hours with in the dark hours of the E-30 computer lab. Thank you to the awesome staff and our wonderful advisor, for changing my life for the better. The cupcakes, coffee, and conversations in the Index office will never be forgotten.