By Kayla Markowitz and Harshitha Kothapalli – Editors-in-Chief 

If you know anything about The Advocate, you have probably gotten used to seeing our names at the top of articles for the past four years. And even more so, seeing us together in the hallways, classrooms, or anywhere in between. In true Kayla and Harshi fashion, we have decided to sign off the way we have spent every day of our high school career: together. 

Harshitha Kothapalli: In the past four years, I have thought a lot about what led me to Journalism. I’ve come up with a multitude of reasons that I resonate with deeply: the power in words, the ability to speak up for what you believe in, the art of writing, and so much more. But recently, I began to not about what led me to Journalism, but why it has stuck with me. The answer to that question consists of the many staff, editors, advisors, and readers that I now call family. 

Kayla Markowitz: As I reflect on why I took Journalism my freshman year, I could think of a myriad of reasons why Journalism seemed like the perfect elective class for me. Above wanting to get involved, I’ve known from a young age that the most impactful thing a person can do is help share other people’s unique stories, perspectives, and voices. Throughout my childhood, so many people have advocated for me, and I am so lucky that Journalism has taught me how to advocate for others. 

HK: Over the past four years, I have learned the immense importance of speaking up and reporting the truth. With that being said, I have also learned how terrifying it can be to face those truths. Many can attest that the girl who walked into Journalism 1 is widely different from the girl writing this sign-off. She would have never written those editorials, edited those articles, let alone even thought about pursuing Journalism for her future career. For that, I thank The Advocate. 

KM: When I took Introduction to Journalism with Mr. Kulenych my freshman year, I did not know how much of my high school experience would be shaped from that one class. Not only was I introduced to someone who inspires me to embrace my journalistic passion, and my best friend (Harshi), but I was able to highlight my classmates’ accomplishments, celebrate the school that has given me so much, and ultimately, find my own voice. 

HK: To some, the daily emails in your inbox, Instagram posts on your feed, and articles posted on the website from The Advocate are just items you skim or read once. To me, those emails, posts, and articles are what built my entire high school experience and have paved the road for my future. They have introduced me to my lifelong best friend, Kayla. They have pushed me to think beyond the “boundaries.” They have erased any preconceived notions of what a young high school student, like me, could accomplish. They have changed my mindset and outlook. They have made an everlasting impact.

KM: Getting to be a part of The Advocate, and even more so, getting the wonderful opportunity to serve as Editor-in-Chief these past two years has been nothing short of a blessing. I learned so much about myself, my peers, and the community I am a part of. I have even got an idea of my future career goals. While I am still exploring different interests, I know, because of journalism, my future career will focus on amplifying underrepresented voices and shining a light on issues that shape local communities. 

HK: Behind all of these amazing opportunities, changes, and memories that The Advocate has given me, there is one person who has been our guiding hand through it all. We often jokingly call him the Greatest of All Time (GOAT), but today, I am telling you, it is no joke. Mr. Kulenych has been the key to unlocking our true potential for the past four years. Whether that means literally needing a key to the Mac lab to film that podcast or edit that video, or needing someone to assure us through the hard times, Mr. K has always been there for us. They say we never understand the importance of someone or something until we lose them. So, today, as I write to you all, a month away from graduation, I am telling you how much I appreciate Mr. K. and the tremendous impact he has made on me. Thank you, Mr. K., for being the person I can laugh with, cry to, and converse with through the good, bad, boring, and exciting days.

KM: As I wrap up, I obviously have to give a tremendous thank you to the man himself; Mr. Kulenych. He has been a true mentor to me, not only by improving my journalistic prose, but also by teaching me leadership, showing me support, and ultimately be someone I can always rely on

HK: Every time I think about the future, I remember that I won’t have Mr. K. one classroom away, Kayla tumbling down the stairs every day, and the memorable hallways of Jonathan Law. But then, I remember, I will always have Mr. K’s values, Kayla’s humor, the life lessons learned at Law, and so much more that I will carry with me every day. 

KM: To the younger generation of Advocate members, remember that you have a unique opportunity to make a bigger difference than you may think. Being able to find the untold stories that shape a community is just a small part of the process, because it’s what you do with those narratives that can drive meaningful change. Also, remember to correctly integrate your quotes!

HK: To those freshmen, sophomores, and juniors who have always wanted to be a part of something bigger than themselves, wanted to speak up for what they believe in, or simply have an empty space in their schedule, I urge you to choose The Advocate and I urge you to choose Journalism because I promise it will fulfill more than just that credit requirement, but change your life entirely. If you still aren’t convinced of the impact it makes, take me as your example. I am happy to report (for the last time) that I will be attending New York University for my next chapter, where I will be studying (of course) Journalism under the Liberal Studies program. Thank you for everything, Jonathan Law and The Advocate. 

KM: It is very bittersweet to be writing my final piece for The Advocate because while I am heartbroken over leaving, I am excited to write a new story at Tufts where I will be studying Political Science.  

Signing off with love,

Kayla Markowitz and Harshitha Kothapalli