Senior Spotlight: Emily Brown

Meet Emily Brown, senior at ERHS. She has reflected on her time at ERHS and what she hopes to accomplish after her graduation in June. Throughout her high school career, she has excelled in her studies and is very grateful for all the experiences she has had the opportunity to be a part of.

Get to know a little more about Emily! Here are some of her responses to questions about her high school career and post-graduation plans:

How have you enjoyed your classes (whether that be in-person or online)?

“High school has been a very long and bumpy road, but I made lots of friendships and had fun experiences along the way. The classes have been fine but some are harder than others. Math has always been my worst and a tough subject for me, but I managed to work my way through it thanks to my peers and teachers. COVID personally was both a positive and a negative for me. Assignments weren’t given as much, but it was harder to touch base when not understanding certain tasks. The year cut short which makes me sad to think of all the opportunities I missed out on that year, but on the flip side I didn’t have to take any regents my freshman year! That really took the weight off my shoulders.”

What do you hope to achieve after high school?

“When I leave East Rockaway, I want to become a detective or a fighter fighter or if I can, possibly both. My uncle was a volunteer firefighter and a detective so I wish to follow in his footsteps. I have always admired superhero movies and comics since I was little and have dreamt about being a real life superhero. While I may not have super vision or flight, I want to be able to save people. I want to be able to help others and give back to those who have helped me.”

Who supported you the most during high school?

“Most of my support has come from my friends who have always stuck by my side, my loving father who has raised me to become the best person I can be, and my teachers who have always encouraged me. I am extremely grateful for every single one of you.”

What is your favorite ERHS memory?

“My favorite ERHS memory is probably watching last year’s Rock Rivalry. Due to COVID, we weren’t able to experience it altogether but finally after two years it happened. I loved seeing how everyone put their differences aside and how each grade came together to compete. You could see that every student and advisor involved all worked tremendously hard. Each performance had their own unique touch and had specific moments that would make you laugh, cry, sing, dance, smile, and cheer. Even though the class of 2022 came out on top, everyone still gave it their all.”

What advice do you have for the underclassman?

“My advice for the underclassmen is to put yourselves out there. Each of you have brilliant ideas and should have your voices heard. Do not hold back, be who you are, and believe in yourselves. Trust me, I have been a shy kid all of my life, and you will miss out on a lot of things. There is no hurt in trying something new. I wish I could go back in time and talk some sense into myself to be brave and do different things. I know it can be nerve-racking but who knows, maybe trying new things will unlock new memories and friendships. You guys can do this. Let go of that fear, don’t let it hold you down. Believe and be yourselves do what makes you happy. I believe in you guys. You must believe in yourselves.”

What is something you will truly miss at ERHS after you graduate?

“I’m going to miss my teachers who have always had my back since I stepped foot in this school. All of you helped me to believe in myself and pushed me above and beyond to things I never knew I could accomplish. I’ll always remember you guys and hold onto the advice you’ve shared with me. For my friends, I’m going to miss all the laughs, good times, bad times, and awkward moments we have endured together. I’m glad we got to share these experiences, It’s been one chaotic ride I’ll never forget. I’m going to miss seeing you guys five days a week. You will all go on to do spectacular things. I hope you all reach your goals and conquer your dreams. I’ll miss you.”

If you could pick one song lyric that defines your high school/senior year, what would it be?

“One song lyric that reminds me of my experiences at East Rockaway is, ‘Nothing Else Matters’ by Metallica. The lyric goes, 

‘Trust I seek and I find in you

Everyday for us something new

Open mind for a different view

And Nothing Else Matters.’”