Writing Samples

Essays Written at DePaul (2020-2024)

Class: CMN 102 | Introduction to Mass Communication

Class: CMN 101 | Introduction to Human Communication

Class: MCS 273 | Storytelling & Style in Cinema

Class: REL 212 | Religion & Popular Culture

Articles Written for the Nolensville High School Yearbook

"No Place Like Home" (Article from 2019-2020)

Throughout the course of one's athletic career, there is one moment that it all leads up to: senior year. Whether it's being a role model, receiving a banner, or even just playing alongside teammates, senior year is something truly special. Unfortunately, many weren't able to cherish these moments as they were stripped of their season. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, schools all across the nation were closed indefinitely. Thus, members of the baseball team weren't able to fully experience their senior season.

However, this didn't stop them from practicing. Reece Milam (12) stated, "With all this time off. I throw everyday and try and keep up with my nutrition to maintain muscle and weight " Milam also had time to reflect on his past season, despite it being cut short. He elaborated, "I will always remember how hard the upperclassman worked in preparation for our senior season.”

In addition to this memory, Milam also recalled past experiences of his baseball career. Moments such as winning their first game at the state tournament and receiving motivation from their coaches will forever be cherished.

Although this experience isn't nearly what he expected, Milam was able to take away an important lesson. He explained, "I will never forget what it's like to be at the bottom and work to the top through hard work."

COVID-19 might have taken away many opportunities, but these passionate seniors have made sure it didn't affect their legacy.

“All In This Together” (Article from 2018-2019)

As the sun dips below the horizon, the stadium lights begin to flicker on and off. This is the time. This is the moment. The game has begun. From 3 pm to well past dark, the football cheerleaders work hard to support their team. Whether it's through spirit days or pep rallies, they are persistent on having the players backs. To them, it's a tradition. Unfortunately, it is one that won't last long for some.

Starting out as sophomores, the cheer team consisted of very few members. However as time progressed, the team grew in number as well as in strength. Many new recruits were added this year, including 5 freshmen.

Lauren Matas (12) explained, "The new freshmen are so talented, and they brought a lot of positivity and excitement to the team."

Due to this, the cheer team increased in both spirit and optimism.

As new recruits come to the team, the freshmen followed in the footsteps of their successors. Day by day, they looked up to them and grew closer as a team. They shared their sorrows as well as their successes with one another, which made a mark on the team.

It is safe to say next year's team won't be the same without them.

Meri Kindle Luttrell (9) recalled, "I thought it was great cheering with seniors this year because as experienced cheerleaders they were able to be leaders and set good examples for us. They will definitely be missed."

However, the freshmen aren't the only ones upset to send off their fellow mentors. Members of all grades were affected by the seniors departure.

Jane Anderson (10) commented, "I'm upset that they are leaving because I've been with them since I've started my cheer career. They taught me a lot throughout the years and will have a lasting impact on me."

As the school continues to grow, more and more recruits will be added to the team. As a result, the underclassmen will acquire the responsibility of filling the seniors' shoes. Time will go on and team members will come and go. However, the legacy of the first seniors will forever live on in their hearts.

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