When asked the question, “What are you looking forward to in 2013,” there were many different answers given. The underclassman’s answers were a lot more thoughtful than the senior’s who seemed to just shrug their shoulders and say “Graduate I guess.” I mean, isn’t that the whole goal of high school? To make friends, stay out of trouble, meet your teacher’s deadlines and hope that you have enough credits to graduate? In the mind of a senior, graduation is an obligatory barrier to having a free life-until these nonchalant kids begin to pay bills of course. After graduation, students are forced to grow up real fast and some dreams are drowned out by the reality monster. Fortunately, some students refuse to give up on their dreams and if it means getting through school to reach them, it’s worth it.

Lexy Nicole, a sophomore, said she looked forward to pursuing her music career in 2013 by playing more shows and showcasing her talent. Beyond the stage lights and the high school atmosphere though, lays a girl with a song in her heart and a guitar to accompany it. She is one of the few that refuse to settle for a reality-based life. To her, dreams can become a reality.

Another student, or should I say exception, is Jessica Coit. Jessica is a senior who chooses to pursue her own dream as well. After graduation in 2013, she plans on attending PortlandUniversity in Oregon. Going to school out of state means living on her own for a while which she is not obliged to doing. As a matter of fact, she is looking forward to moving out of the “nest” so to speak. With life ahead of her, she will soon set off on a journey that will mark another chapter in the book called Life. Without dreams to pursue, there is no movement. Without movement, there can only be a stagnant, unfulfilled life. Ripon High, I dare you to dream again!

Written by Marco Arce