Dear Fieldston News Readers,
I don’t know that I’ve ever formally introduced myself to you; when you read my writing I likely exist as a disembodied, snarky voice in your mind, or maybe some pretentious stranger with lukewarm takes on current events. Well, I may be those things, but I’m also Rebecca: she/her pronouns, mediocre left-fielder, and Fieldston alumnus as of yesterday.
I entered The Fieldston News (and the Fieldston School) in ninth grade, as a gawky fifteen-year-old with little sense of myself or of anybody else. I tended to stand at the fringes of any social groups, perpetually observing, perpetually consuming, and rarely participating. Now, as I leave both institutions, a gawky eighteen year old with a few more opinions and a better grasp of grammar, I just want to say thank you.
Thank you to the approximately five people that read my articles, to the News writers and editors, to Mr. Montera and everyone else who’s called me out when required; thank you for forgiving my frequently dropping the ball, for making me better, for allowing me to ricochet wildly (and with varying levels of success) out of my comfort zone. I love this place and these people, and I sincerely do appreciate the person they’ve helped me become.
I never thought I’d be this old, never thought I’d have to consider myself a real life grownup, that I would have to leave this place that still feels so new. Soon I’ll be collecting my AARP discount and complaining about my joints, but before that happens I’d love to give a few words of advice: try hard.
It sounds obvious, but it took me so long to learn. Sincerity is scary and humiliating, but also beautiful. Nobody thinks you’re stupid for writing a poem or participating in class or trying to make friends–and if they do, who cares? You’re the only constant in your life, anyway; treat your own approval like it matters.
Anyway, I’m not really in any position to drop knowledge bombs. Do with my hallmark wisdom what you will, and from one trainwreck to another, good luck.
Lots of ambivalence and even more love,
Your former editor-in-chief,
Rebecca Margaret Kopelman
