Dear Erick,
CONGRATULATIONS!! It seems impossible that we are already in our final weeks of high school. Soon, we’ll be sending off the Class of 2025 and starting an entirely new phase of our lives. Although we’ve only known each other these four years, you have taught me things that I will carry through my entire life. I’ve learned how to be more confident in the classroom and during Key Club meetings, the value of hard work, and from your betrayal in Senior Assassin, the importance of fighting for yourself.
Whether it’s a teacher, classmate, or friend, everyone has only the best things to say about you, and I truly don’t think there is a single person in this school who dislikes you. From your outstanding work ethic and intelligence to, more importantly, your genuine kindness and humility, you inspire everyone around you, including me. I feel so lucky to have had the same schedule as you since freshman year, and more so to have become such good friends.
As my Key Club co-president, I have seen firsthand how reliable, well-spoken, and thoughtful you are. It’s no surprise that Erika loves you so much because every time you volunteer, you never fail to put a smile on everyone’s face. We’ve spent countless hours solving last-minute problems, tracking down volunteers, organizing events, texting Doc, and staying late after school to complete awards, and there’s no one else I’d rather have beside me during both the stressful and the fun times.
Even though your betrayal still hurts, I’ll always be thankful for the times we were on the same team—J-Geeks, 2024 Quiz Bowl, Sports Night team-walkers, and so much more. No matter the situation, you make working together so easy. Every chaotic moment, every challenge, and every win (or loss) is undeniably more fun with you, and I’ll always treasure these memories.
You have the best handwriting and style (despite what the yearbook says), and I’m still so impressed by all your Gentictionarys and your senior research poster (even though the first drafts were questionable). No one matches your dedication, creativity, and passion, and that combination will continue pushing you and the people around you forward.
One of the things I’ve always admired about you is that you are never afraid to participate in class. There have been so many times when I’ve been afraid to raise my hand, but you never hesitate to ask a question, shout out an answer, or join a discussion. You never just accept the information and move on, and often, your questions help the rest of us understand. Your engagement not only shows your curiosity but also your confidence and leadership. These traits are what will bring you success at Hopkins, even more than your intelligence.
Thank you for being an amazing co-president, fun competitor, generous classmate, and mine and my brother’s best friend. I have no doubts that Mr. Franklin’s “Dr. Diaz” nickname will come to fruition, and you will accomplish everything you set out to do. Hopkins is getting the absolute best. Congratulations again!!!
Your friend,
Kate Santoli
