Pat-Med has always been a welcoming environment to me. Having to come out as trans to your friends and teachers can be terrifying, especially if you’re as quiet and socially awkward as I am. But, of my almost four years here, I’ve never received a negative reaction after coming out. My teachers would almost immediately adjust to my name and pronouns, and my friends are some of the most supportive people I’ve ever met. Of course with such a large number of students in one building you’ll run into some who don’t accept who you are. But in those times, there’s always been someone there for me, to defend and support me. I’ll always remember the love and encouragement I received to help me make it through high school. Yes, I will be leaving Pat-Med this year and I will always have my little memories with my friends, but I will never forget the life lessons I have learned from my teachers, guidance counselors, and students themselves.