The BAM staff is celebrating 25 seniors from the Class of 2025! Starting May 1, we’ll highlight one randomly selected senior each day as we count down to graduation. The seventeenth senior is Willow Parker.
What has been the highlight of your senior year?
Being around friends constantly has really made my time at GHS fun. I got to see them everyday and we always did our best to make the most of our time.
What is your favorite memory of your time in high school?
While I don’t have a specific one, something that does stand out was when my math class (freshman year I think) joked that Mr. Slavinski got married to a woman we made up. Apparently that rumor spread and people started to believe it. So much so that one of the other classes bought a giant cake that said “Congratulations”. It was hilarious.
What are your future plans?
I plan to go to OSU Newark for my first year of college and then transfer to the main campus where I will major in Architecture.
What will you miss the most about high school?
So many things. For one not being able to see all of my friends everyday or talking to my favorite teachers. As well the funny, little things, such as how I can open my locker with my eyes closed, how I know which bathroom stall is the best one, or how out of breath I am when I get to the top of the stairs. The things that used to annoy me I now find funny and I think that I will miss that.
What are you looking forward to after graduating?
Just enjoying my time with family and friends. I am going to go see Hamilton, which is super exciting. I love my job working at the Lazy River Granville Campground, and just fully being in the present.
What was your favorite school lunch?
By far the Stromboli. The saltiness of the pepperoni with the softness of the bread was a perfect harmony. Plus when you dip it in tomato sauce and ranch, it is utterly delicious. I will miss it.
What portrait of a graduate competency do you identify most with?
I feel that I identify with resiliency the most. There have been many moments in my high school experience where I had to pick up the pieces and move forward. It has made me into a stronger, more optimistic person. With it I feel more confident going into the adult world.
What was your favorite class?
I don’t have an absolute favorite but here are some of my favorite classes throughout high school:
- Forensics with Mrs. Hoover
- Digital Art with Ms. Tinnel
- Painting and art class with Mrs. Noblett
- AP English Literature and Composition with Mrs. Simmons
- AP English Language and Composition with Mr. Mullins
- AP Psychology with Mr. Teeters
- AP World and ace period with Mrs. Decker
- Algebra 2 with Mrs. Brison
- Government with Mr. Hopping
- Physics with Mr. Bait
What was your favorite class project?
My final for Forensics. We built houses and then we got to commit arson (burn them) to observe how fast something can light on fire. It was fun to build it and then burn it.
What advice would you give underclassmen?
Manage your time, especially if you are involved with extracurriculars. Don’t leave out too many missing assignments and pay attention to what is required of you. Also, don’t be afraid to make friends. All people are awkward so just meet new people. Finally, do not be afraid to challenge yourself. Whether that is taking an AP or advanced class, or a sport, or theater; whatever it is, do it. Even if it’s hard or challenging it can only make you better. Also don’t procrastinate too much!
