I graduated from Chicago Christian in 2000, but when I recently drove by the soccer stadium of CCHS, the memories rushed back. Tight soccer cleats, the sun dipping behind the gymnasium, and a group of friends ready to play. Many of my memories of high school are anchored on that field.  From homecoming court to running the mile for gym class, I loved the fresh air and the field. 

As a person who struggled with dyslexia and ADHD, academic life was tolerable only because of Mrs. Iannarone in Academic Support. My spell checker, Mrs. Iannaorne, needed to check and recheck each essay I wrote. She was patient and kind as I was easily distracted and flustered. She was calm and redirected my thoughts as they drifted from my work. I am forever grateful for her support through high school. 

While at CCHS, I was involved in extracurriculars through which I developed fond memories. I enjoyed being a part of the basketball team all four years of high school. My senior year was my favorite season because we made it to super sectionals and had a lot of fun. I learned that working hard pays off, but it’s important to have some fun along the way. I also enjoyed being a part of DECA, a club that prepares students for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management. I developed networking skills through DECA, and I have fond memories of the state competition which helped me learn to think on my feet. The PLTW Biomed classes were foundational in developing a desire to pursue a career in healthcare. 

I remember my time at Chicago Christian High School fondly. Without a doubt, I formed lifetime friendships that continue to bring joy and support to my life. I was able to be a part of a lot of things, including student council, yearbook, basketball, and theater, which I really enjoyed. I remember an epic food fight and dances in the cafeteria, and sweating my ability to make it from A hall to C hall in time for class. I am indebted to CCHS for providing me with an education that grounded me in my faith. Every time I say the Apostles Creed, I remember Mr. Van Kampen's exposition on the importance of the word "seated", in the sentence "seated at the right hand of God the Father Almighty". God's salvation work was complete and there was nothing more to be added to on my end. I remember teachers who cared enough about us to allow us to ask difficult questions about the world, our faith, and what it meant for our lives. 

My dad was hired as the guidance counselor at Chicago Christian in 1994. For 16 years, I roamed the hallways of CCHS, put up shots in the gym, and sat in the college counseling room outside of my dad’s office. By the time I arrived as a freshman, I already had a deep sense of pride in being a Knight - going to CCHS vs. Illiana basketball games since you were 3 years old will undoubtedly do that to you.

Chicago Christian was much more than just school to me. It was, in many ways, a place where I felt at home. Summing up all of those years is challenging, and I’m not sure I would be able to do any of it justice. I have several fond memories in the classrooms and hallways, on the athletic fields, and in the auditorium.