Taken at Graduation

June 1, 2023

Ms. Chen -

I'm so grateful I got to experience both your class and Mr. Chen's this year. It's dangerous to say, but I wish I could feel what the full year is like in both of your classes (which would mean two years of AP Lit...). Alas, I think I got the best of both worlds and it all worked out!

Mind me when I say some of the people in our 3rd period were drones - it made me sad when you'd prompt discussions and basically talk into a cave, and I wish I had stepped up more in those moments. Nonetheless, I'm glad we got to lead more conversations outside of class, whether it be Lily asking for restaurant recommendations or talking about deeper shared experiences from growing up. As I depart from my youth I'm grateful to have a mentor like you to look up to and talk to, and I look forward to more exchanges over the internet or in person! (I'll say hi and try not to look dumbfounded if I see you at Costco for sure)

I'm still so surprised I got an award for your class. It was surreal hearing Mr. Chen read the medallion blurb after watching my upperclassmen receive them in the past two years. I'm not one to care too much about academic awards (because I never really get them LOL), but this one I'll really hold close to my heart. I'll definitely keep your words in mind if I'm ever struggling to write something in the future.

It's hard figuring out how to say goodbye, because I know we'll stay in touch, but it still won't be the same as being in your class every other day. I hope your future students know how lucky they are to have you as a teacher. Thank you for everything! I'll visit!

Annabelle