Fear of unknown eased by supportive school

Thu., June 8, 2006

Tara Clark Spokane Valley High School

“Are you ready for this, Tara? It’s going to be a lot of work…I’m excited for you, but I just want to make sure you know what you’re in for… ”

Suzanne, the guidance counselor at Spokane Valley High School, had a pouty look on her face the entire time she was talking to me. Finally, she smiled as she said, “I’m not ready for you to leave yet.”

Hopefully, next year, I will be attending Spokane Community College through Running Start. It is something I have planned on since seventh grade, but it’s now five months away from college that the fears start to set in. Can I do this? Am I strong enough, mature enough? College at 16? I know it will look great on a résumé but can I really go through with it?

I am one of nine students facing “life” at the end of this year. The other eight are seniors at Spokane Valley High School. I am a sophomore by age, a junior by credits. We are all facing decision upon decision; choices that will determine the rest of our lives. College? Work? Children? And, in each decision, are many smaller choices and dilemmas. How am I going to pay for the books? Can I manage a job and college at the same time?

Amanda Palmen, one of the graduating students this year, is expecting a daughter. Although I am sure she will be a great mother, it’s scary for me to think about standing on the edge of your future and already you have so much responsibility on your shoulders. Jeffery Mugica, who will be attending ITT Tech next year, says he doesn’t know what to expect. “Spokane Valley is the only school I felt accepted … I wish I could stay.”

Indeed, I agree. My school is great in so many ways, and I am truly proud to say I am an attendant at Spokane Valley High School. With a student-body of 100, there is little to no “drama.” Everyone knows everyone; there aren’t cliques, or popular people, and the only students who are secluded are because they choose to be. You really get to know your teachers and develop a relationship with them. You feel like everyone is there to help you, to stand by you. Once you walk in the doors, you get the ultimate feeling of welcome.

All of this added together makes me wonder about college. I am told that Spokane Community College is a completely different atmosphere. If I fail a test in college, there won’t be that kind, considerate teacher to walk me through it and explain what I did wrong. There won’t be friends in every hallway.

I think, overall, it is the fear of the unknown. I know if I really try, I am positive I can do it; it’s just the fact that it will be such a change from Spokane Valley. It will be real life, the real world, and although I feel like I am ready for it, there is still the fear that I am going to fail.

I know I am lucky in some senses to have this opportunity, for one, and to have such an awesome school behind me … telling me I CAN DO IT!

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