IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE this is my last column. I’ve written about so many different things over the past year: how yoga can help with stress, the importance of taking care of our environment, and even the struggles federal workers go through during layoffs.

But now that graduation is around the corner, it feels right to take a step back and think about what I’m really taking with me as I leave John Carroll.

Of course, I’ll take the memories: football games, classes I have loved, and each person I have befriended, but I’m also leaving with more than just memories. I’m leaving with a better understanding of who I am and what I care about.

One of the things I’m really proud of is that JC is now officially a Maryland Green School.

That might not sound like a big deal to everyone, but to me, it means that the things students and teachers — specifically Ms. Cochran — have worked hard for, are making a difference.

Becoming a Green School means our school has made a real commitment to being environmentally friendly. We’re saving the school pond, creating no mow zones, planting trees and recycling more.

The best part is that more schools are starting to do this, too — not just JC.

It’s not just about one school or one program, but it’s a growing movement. It starts with students who care enough to speak up, join a club, or write about it (like I’ve tried to do here). That gives me hope for the future. It makes me feel like we’re moving in the right direction.

Looking back, I realize how much JC has helped me grow.

I’ve learned how to be more confident, how to stay grounded when things get stressful, and how to care about the world.

I’ve also learned how important it is to use a voice, even if it’s through something as small as a school newspaper column.

So, what am I taking with me? I’m taking everything I’ve learned here. I’m taking pride in the changes we’ve made, like becoming a Green School.

I’m taking memories of the people who have encouraged me, like my teammates and teachers, and I’m taking the belief that no matter where I go next, I can keep making a difference in small ways.