The Start and End of 10th Grade. by Emily Garrido

The Start vs the End in 10th Grade.

egarr006 — 2025-05-22 12:07:05 UTC

At the beginning of this year, I felt uncertain and nervous about how things would go, especially with harder classes and bigger expectations. I wasn’t sure if I could handle the pressure. But now, I feel more confident, mature, and proud of how far I’ve come. I’ve learned how to manage my time better, ask for help when I need it, and not be afraid of challenges. I’ve grown not just academically but also personally. This year taught me that change is uncomfortable, but necessary for growth.

Symbolizing:

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The growth of maturing.

Book:

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Lord of the Flies by William Golding really opened my eyes to how quickly civilization can fall apart when people are driven by fear and power. The story of boys stranded on an island becomes more than survival. it becomes a warning about human nature. One quote that stuck with me is: “Maybe there is a beast… maybe it’s only us.” It made me reflect on how our inner fears and instincts can be more dangerous than anything outside of us. This book challenged me to think deeply about leadership, society, and morality.

egarr006 — 2025-05-22 12:13:00 UTC

Challenges:

egarr006 — 2025-05-22 12:15:51 UTC

One challenge I faced this year was staying motivated during tough weeks when everything felt overwhelming. I was juggling school, personal life, and extracurriculars. I overcame it by breaking tasks into smaller goals and celebrating small wins. I also started using a planner to organize my time better. This taught me that discipline beats motivation on hard days. I learned I’m stronger than I give myself credit for.

egarr006 — 2025-05-22 12:17:13 UTC

Poem:

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“Like the tide I rise again,

Even when the world feels gray.

Strength is quiet, but it stays—

Like sunlight after rain.”

This poem came to me during a hard moment, and writing it helped me express my emotions. It reminded me that even small acts of strength matter.

egarr006 — 2025-05-22 12:23:32 UTC

Hopes:

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As I look ahead to junior year, I hope to keep growing and challenging myself. I want to take more risks, try new things, and keep aiming higher. I hope to build deeper connections and keep preparing for college and my future. My mindset now is focused and hopeful.

Quote: “She remembered who she was and the game changed.”

egarr006 — 2025-05-22 12:30:02 UTC

The Past Memories:

egarr006 — 2025-05-22 12:34:52 UTC

One assignment I’m especially proud of is my old Padlet project. I put a lot of thought into each post, reflecting my past and maturing as I grew. I used visuals and photos to represent my growth, innocence, and the ideas I had as a child. It felt rewarding to look back at how much I’d experienced and accomplished throughout the years. Seeing it all together reminded me that my efforts matter.

egarr006 — 2025-05-22 12:36:35 UTC