Starting a new school can be an intimating experience, especially for a teenager. Leaving behind familiar faces and routines to enter a new environment can be overwhelming, but for Kate, her transition was a welcoming one. She will admit that moving to a new school her junior year was quite hard, not knowing anyone and scared of what she might encounter, but Kate says this was the best decision of her life.
At Kate's old high school, she just never felt like she quite fit in. Moving to a new school she worried about whether she would make friends, if the classes would be too hard, and if she would be accepted by the other students. Kate describes Southeast High School as the most accepting place she has ever been. She felt welcomed by the other students and made friends right away. Kate found a group of people who shared her interests and passions. She was thrilled to have made new friends so quickly and felt like she had finally found a place where she belonged.
Kate said that the highlight of her 2 years at Southeast High School was when her cross-country team made school history and qualified for the regional championship for the first time in 23 years.
Kate's experience at her new school taught her that sometimes it's necessary to step out of one's comfort zone to find true happiness. While leaving behind familiar surroundings can be scary, it can also lead to new opportunities and experiences. Kate's willingness to be open and to embrace her new school led to her feeling welcomed and accepted by her peers.
Starting a new school is never easy, but Kate's story is a reminder that sometimes, change can be a good thing. It may take time to adjust to a new environment, but with an open mind and a positive attitude, anyone can find a sense of belonging and community.
Kate would also like to give a big shoutout to her favorite teacher at Southeast High School, Mr. Campbell, (aka her dad) for always being there for her and helping her with this transition.
Senior pictures are a rite of passage for high school seniors, a way to commemorate their final year of school and celebrate their achievements. While many seniors choose to have their pictures taken in the studio, at the school, or at a local park, Kate chose her family farm. Her family farm held a special place in her heart. It's a place where she grew up playing, working and making memories with her family and friends. Kate's family farm was the perfect backdrop to showcase her personality and her connection to her roots.
It was while walking around Kate's family farm taking her senior photos that she told me her story about moving to a new school and how hard it had been for her at her old school. I was so moved by how vulnerable she was and how she opened up with me. I felt like we captured so much more than just senior pictures that day.
The family farm was definitely the perfect spot for Kate's senior session. It was unique and added a special touch to all the photos. The more we shot, the more relaxed Kate became in front of the camera, and we had the most amazing time together.
I'll end this senior spotlight of Kate with a clip from her senior video so that you too can get a glimpse of this amazingly strong and brave senior.
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