Day in and day out, I go to school, do my homework, and study for exams. I will be the first to admit that some days feel like they will never end. I fall into a rut and follow the same boring routine. Although Xavier pushes us to excel at a higher level academically, I believe there is something greater that takes place within these walls, something that makes me look beyond my class work and daily routine.

When I was a freshman, I thought my parents sent me to Xavier to prepare me for college and grow in my faith everyday. As a junior, I now realize that I could attend any of the public schools in the area, participate in Religious Education classes on Wednesdays, and possibly still receive the same outcome.

This made me question “Why am I at Xavier?” How could this school be any different than the rest? For me, the answer is simple, family. If you haven’t walked the halls, attended a sporting event, celebrated Mass, or witnessed the small, but important moments that people seem to forget about in high school, you have missed the true purpose of Xavier. If you look a little closer, you will notice how our teachers and administration do not only care if you pass or fail a test, but they genuinely care about how you are growing as a person. If you could listen in to every conversation during passing period or in the privacy of the restroom, you would witness how much we love and care for our own classmates. In my three years at Xavier, I have not only grown academically, spiritually, and physically, but I have also become a better person. I have learned how to strengthen my relationships and friendships, and I have learned more about the gifts God has blessed me with.

I truly believe in Xavier’s message of, “We are a Family.” When I think about how fast all of our high school years go by, I understand now, more than ever, how important it is to cherish each day and the people I share it with. I am thankful for this experience. I know that no matter what, one thing is constant in my life, my second family.