With the annual Whirl dance just around the corner, girls are beginning to figure out who they will ask, and more importantly, who will be in whose group. This is the time of the year when the claws come out.  One of the most memorable and enjoyable times of the year turns into an exclusive and cliquey event. Time and time again, people are turned down from a Whirl group with the classic excuse of “we’ve already made a reservation” or “there are too many people in our group.” Even this year, as a senior, I see girls excluding other girls because they want “the right people” in their groups. The funny thing is, twenty years from now, they won’t remember who was in their exclusive group. It is more likely that those who were excluded will remember that time and the way you treated them.

During my last year of high school, I have realized what is truly important. I have realized that I want people to remember me as someone who is always willing to include others. To all the younger students, the next time you see someone struggling to belong, take them in, because these simple and easy acts of inclusivity can have a lasting impact.