See You Later
by Amber Rivard
I never asked to be the editor. In fact, I was taken aback when MainSheet faculty adviser Tim Miller asked me to take it on. It was a possibility that had never even run through my mind.
I’m what they consider a high school “dropout,” but I couldn’t even get to the school to officially drop out.
Instead of worrying about the usual teen problems, I was often faced with figuring out where I would lay my head at night. My grandmother, who raised me, died a month after I turned 14. My life became unstable, and I found myself in a vicious cycle of being placed into foster homes only to be returned to fending for myself.
My son, Matthew, gave me purpose when I didn’t think I had anything left in me, and my journey landed me at 4Cs, where my true story begins.
But the story cannot be told without the professors who changed my life, whom I met within two semesters and have supported me every step of the way.
During my first semester in English Comp. I, Professor Patricia Allen helped me discover I was a writer. Each of her essay assignments held invaluable lessons that prepared me to be a dedicated student for life. I admire her selflessness, genuineness, and empathy for her students. She’s the reason I signed up for Journalism and took the leap to honors classes in the first place. I’ve had the pleasure of serving as her SI (Supplemental Instruction) Leader for three semesters, providing classroom support and tutoring students to help them learn the essential skills she taught me.
During my second semester, I learned that psychology wouldn’t be the only career I would pursue. As Professor Miller explained what journalism stood for, I knew I found my passion. It was another way I could help others. Journalism is an indispensable component of our democracy by being a voice for the voiceless, taking the wool out from people’s eyes, and igniting real-world changes.
When done right, journalism is a noble profession. It’s also fun and exciting. You’re the storyteller, always making judgment calls: What’s the important information here? What questions should be asked of sources? What quotes should be used? What’s the lede?
Professor Miller helped me become the confident writer and journalist I am today. I had a lot of insecurities when I started writing, and he helped me pick through them with a fine toothcomb. I could not have been blessed with a better mentor; his endless encouragement and belief in me helped me excel and accomplish my goals. Under his guidance, I’ve been privileged to serve as editor-in-chief since 2022. Working with Journalism I students prepared me for my role as a tutor, and my MainSheet experience helped get my foot in the door for my internship and freelance work for the Cape Cod Times.
Last, but certainly not least, is Professor Kate Martin, Honors Program Coordinator and Honors Club adviser. When I got a letter recommending that I sign up for honors classes after my first semester, I was nervous, but I signed up for two, one was her World History From 1500 CE. My anxieties dissipated after meeting her; she always believed in me. I started participating in the Honors Club, going on educational field trips, and organizing drives for needy families. With Professor Martin’s unwavering support, I became a Commonwealth Honor Student and the president of the Honors Club.
Once, I was asked in Honors English Comp. II what the word community meant to students. I replied: “Communities are destructive.” I was thinking of the community I was in when I was younger, before 4Cs, when I went through a kind of hell.
I tell you this because no matter the circumstances you are dealt, you can always change your life. Stay strong. Dig your head deep into your books, participate on campus, and help others -- because you’re really helping yourself grow in the process.
Graduation this year is on my birthday, May 23, and it couldn’t feel more surreal. While earning 83 credits, I explored and embraced my interests and savored every moment.
Thank you, readers. With you always at the forefront of my mind, I’ve not only grown as an editor, and student but as a person.
This isn’t goodbye; it’s see you later. Odds are you’ll see me again on campus in some fashion.
I found my community at 4Cs.
Sincerely,
Amber Rivard
Amber Rivard. (Amber Rivard
Categories: Featured, Editorials