Olivia

Hi Highlanders! I hope you’re as excited to read this issue because I know I am. I first want to say congratulations to all the seniors graduating, and good luck, future editors and staff of The Kilt. My one and only message to you is, don’t be afraid to change it up a bit. As someone who has always tried three different editor positions and hopped from section to section, I have always found myself writing about what I liked at the time. Finding what you’re passionate about helps make a better story, and if that has to change, so be it, that’s life lol.

Erika Kerimova

Hey Highlanders! In honor of this being the last issue of the year and my last issue on the Kilt, I wanted to say my goodbyes to the Kilt and Hazen. Being in journalism for the last four years and being editor for three of those years taught me so much about myself and taught me that stepping outside your comfort zone is so important because that’s how you can discover your passions. After we graduate we all are headed down completely different paths, some of are going to college, others of us are heading straight to work, and some of us are taking a year to figure things out, no matter what your plan is for next year, don’t be afraid to try new things and do things that you are scared of. I am so grateful for the amazing experience and friendships I made, and with that, this is head editor Erika signing out.

Drew Anderson

Hey guys!

By the time you are reading this Kilt issue, you are probably already aching for the school year to be over or celebrating your final days at Hazen before graduating, and to be honest, so am I. While these past four years have been somewhat grueling and did not exactly live up to my mental fabrication of the dream high school experience, being a part of Hazen journalism and creating each and every issue of the Kilt has been an absolutely unforgettable experience. While I started as somewhat of a Kilt nepo-baby, joining solely to have a class with my older sister and with little idea where I fit in or what I wanted to do, journalism quickly became the highlight of my day. I hope you guys enjoy our last issue of the year, and my last issue as head editor. It has been a long time coming. 

-Drew

Dear Hazen Highlanders, 

Only a few more weeks to go!! From being a staff member to an editor, being a part of the Kilt has played an integral role in shaping who I am and how I perceive things. Initially, I was intimidated by taking on a leadership role, but I have no regrets as I have grown as a leader, built new relationships, and strengthened my understanding of the communities around me. My message to you is to always lead with compassion. As I have learned to write without bias, I have also learned to view the world and people from multiple perspectives and without judgment. Enjoy this last issue of the kilt under the summer sunshine!

Sincerely, 

Elle 

Dear Highlanders, 

As the school year ends and for many, the chapter of high school closes, this issue of The Kilt is made with lots of love and the celebrations as the seniors and staff of The Kilt worked hard this year to make sure The Kilt is an inspiration for many, a joy to read, and does justice to Hazen. Throughout my time in Journalism, I found this community through a close friend, but I didn’t realize the memories and knowledge I would gain just by writing and sharing with the world. As many of you move to new grades, schools, and experiences, remember to take a chance. Don’t live with regret. Be proud of who you are and how far you have come. As I write my final words for The Kilt, I’m grateful for the people who have been a part of my journey. Enjoy the last issue of The Kilt and have a great summer! 

Best wishes,

Navneet