As the school year for Driscoll’s seniors commences with the May 20 Graduation Mass, this year at St. Isidore Parish in Bloomingdale, the student body begins to prepare individually and as a class for their own ending to high school; finally choosing which college or university meets what they’re looking for, applying for those last-minute scholarships and coming to the realization that in August most will be moving into unknown territory.

When looking around Driscoll, it is clear to see that underclassmen are also searching to see where they may be led in the journey of high school. Juniors are busy prepping for their ACT. Freshmen and sophomores are starting to delve into curriculum guides and choose next year’s classes, trying to fit both mandatory classes and personal interest courses into their schedules, already booked with hopes of trying out for a new athletic team or running for officer of a club.

As my year comes to an end, I have reflected on both my accomplishments and unfinished goals. Driscoll has motivated me in so many ways to grow into the student I have become. I feel very secure with not only the education I have received at Driscoll, but also that the values I have learned and experiences I have gained have molded my character into a well-developed, well-rounded student.

Another area I have been able to truly show my growth in has been through my columns in the Catholic Explorer. I feel blessed that I am able look back at my work in the diocesan newspaper and see my growth over the past two years as a student columnist. I have had an opportunity that many student journalists do not receive by writing for the Diocese of Joliet’s weekly paper.

Looking back on how my articles have evolved over the months has shown me how what I have learned at Driscoll Catholic has affected all aspects of my life, included my views and topics. It was an amazing feeling and opportunity to be able to talk about and interview the people in my life that have influenced some of my work for this column: Maureen Brennan of St. John the Baptist Church, Winfield; Brother Dominic Bedor, a retired teacher and Driscoll’s friendliest math tutor; Laraine Parker, Driscoll’s campus minister, for all of her work with campus ministry, eucharistic ministry, and every one of Driscoll’s fundraisers and drives, as well as many other men and women who have helped shape my faith and show me exactly what it means to be Catholic.

Mostly, I appreciate the help from my mentor for the past two years, Art Stuart, who has always pushed me to write about topics that will gather interest, increase knowledge and show a story otherwise missed. Together, we have created some great topics and truly challenged me as a journalist. I will never forget how this experience has propelled my passion for being a Catholic, a journalist and a student at Driscoll Catholic.