The day I heard about AMES, I had my doubts. But along with those doubts, I had my own private hopes. Because of those hopes, I decided to go out on a limb, and come to a new high school where nothing is concrete and sure, but everything is fluid and debatable, and I'm sure we all knew we were taking a huge chance. I had made a decision that would likely change the rest of my life.

For our own reasons, each of us got off the main and popular freeway, exited onto an unknown road, and have been there ever since. The beginning was rocky. At least once in that first year here, the vehicle got stuck in a pot-hole, and every one of us (students and teachers included) had to get out and help rock the car out. Every inch of the trail we are trodding is unmapped, and we have all been doing our share to make the ride worthwhile.

Sure, we lost a few people along the way. Some students gave up, and hopped back on the main highway, but those of us who are here today, those of us who have put in the effort, who had the motivation to keep going, are now graduating together. I'm a little dusty from the road, but that dust has just added character, and I've still got a long way to go.

The future can be scary and daunting. But why not exciting? David Lloyd George has said, "Don't be afraid to take a big step. You can't cross a chasm in two small steps." We all need to continue taking chances. It's those chances, those seemingly "crazy" decisions I make in life that make my life. Because I chose AMES, I have turned myself into a guinea pig. For the next few years, we will be watched and studied. It will be determined whether AMES is truly worth it or not. We will see if the dedication and motivation we've had over the past three years is enough to keep us kicking. And if it isn't, how much more do we need?

My favorite movie, Braveheart, has some great themes and quotes, but one of my favorite quotes says "Your heart is free. Have the courage to follow it." My heart knows what I want. The question is, does my brain have the guts to listen to it, and follow it? Starting in the fall, the majority of us will be going to college. That in itself takes courage. Some students may be going on missions for their churches, or working to earn some money, or getting married, or whatever else they've decided the future holds for them. With each thing we choose, we must choose it with courage, and continue with dedication.

Just remember that with dedication we can do anything. Always take chances. It may seem hard now to get up and move on now that high school is over. We've already been pushing for so long, right? When one door closes, a window or two opens. Pick a window and fly.

Jessica C.