Graduation is a happy time in every young person's life. It is something that everyone looks forward to, and when first entering kindergarten, thirteen years seems like a long time away.

When I started my journey thirteen years ago, I thought I had forever to grow up and figure out what I wanted to do.

Little did I know that over the course of thirteen years, I not only would figure out what I wanted to do early on, but also would go through life events that would make me who I am.

One of my favorite quotes is about how people come in our lives right when God knows we need them mosts. There are four people in my life who I feel like this applies too. They are my best friends and I thank God every day for them. Without these four friends of mine I wouldn't be the person I am today. I hope they know how much I love them.

My parents are two people who have been my light throughout these past 13 years. They have seen me through the best and worst of times and everything in between. My mom may have had to pressure me sometimes to put some fire under me to get things done, but thanks to her I have managed to be a good student and be able to say I am proud of all of my accomplishments.

These 13 years have flown by too quickly. It's going to be hard to move on from being a kid and transitioning into an adult world, but thanks to my parents, family, friends and mentors I feel like I am prepared. They have all encouraged me to be who I want to be and not be afraid to stand up for what I believe in. I will always be thankful for them.

Joy is an intern at The Covington News and will graduate from Eastside High School May 25. She can be reached at jbratcher@covnews.com