When Señor Garry told me during my expression eight study hall class I was nominated onto homecoming court, I was starstruck. I started at Eastern during sophomore year: a new student in a sea of peers I didn’t know. Everyone had these shared educational experiences in elementary and middle school except for me. I was forced to restart from stage one—find new friends, adjust to a new school system, get involved in the community, and make my mark.

   I have since made a name for myself at Eastern. Many know me for my work in The Voyager, or reporting on ETV News Live. But I never considered myself ‘popular.’ I’ve found my place at Eastern, and a flock of friends I truly fit in with, but I still feel like the new girl sometimes. I’m still Kaitlin Swift, the overachieving English student and journalist still finding her place in this world.

   This is why the nomination meant so much to me. It showed me that my peers do recognize me, see me for who I am. It made me realize that I have had an impact on my peers, even though sometimes I doubt that. People remembered me, and thought of me in those fifteen minutes where they had to nominate someone to be homecoming queen. I am eternally grateful to everyone who voted me onto the court: it was one of the best experiences I have had in my seventeen years of life.

   I chose my dad to be my escort. He has always been one of my greatest supporters, teaching me to always try my best. Keep moving forward, and most importantly, have fun. He helped alleviate my nervousness before we went onto the field: cracking jokes, taking selfies, talking to some of the other nominees, and telling us to just enjoy the moment. And as we walked across the track, I was just so happy to have him with me.

   Even though myself and the seniors did not win, being on homecoming court is still an experience I will remember fondly. Standing on the risers in my lavender dress, crocheted corsage courtesy of my friend Cam, arm linked with my father as I smiled out at the crowd. All I can say is thank you, everyone, for giving me the privilege of being on the homecoming court. Congratulations to Aditya Keswani and Malani Sierra on homecoming king and queen, and the class of 2025 for winning spirit week!