In September of 2024, I wrote “New Student Experience at PHS” and as this year comes to an end, I can confidently say my first year as a Pirate was a beautiful experience. To recap from my first story, I had been a student in my previous school for about 8 years. It was in a small town with only about 400 students in total at its high school. Here at Pattonville High School, there are huge differences, not just in the number of students but also in the school’s social climate I had to adjust to. Within a month of posting that story, I had made tons of new friends, joined amazing clubs, and created beautiful memories.
In my original story, I interviewed fellow new student, junior, Danielle Adory. I caught up with her recently and she stated, “My highlight of the year was meeting new people, and getting a job!” Adory said.
Pattonville has a communal feeling to it despite the large population of students. I never felt left out or alone, even though I was new. I came into this experience not expecting much out of my last two years of high school. I was determined to come, do the work, and leave. Instead, I was encouraged to get involved. At Pattonville, I continued my involvement in DECA and National Honor Society, but also joined Debate and Green Team. Next year, I’m excited to be an Officer for the Green Team and Vice President of DECA.
I was greeted with compassion and positivity. I made an abundance of friends and met considerate staff members who are always willing to help students. During the homecoming assembly, the Pirate spirit truly manifested. The atmosphere created was electric. Every single student I saw at that assembly was encouraging, and I knew then that students are excited to come to school every single day.
This year has probably been one of the best school years to date, which means a lot considering I only have one more after this. Pattonville allowed me to turn a new page in a chapter of my life that I wasn’t proud of or prepared for. In a time of substantial change for myself, this school has made it so simple and welcoming for me. I’m so grateful that I could have the opportunity to meet all of my new friends and engage in all of the new experiences here. Keep up the good work, Pattonville!
