What is the best thing that happened to you in 2017 and why?

Andres Gonzales, Santa Fe Waldorf School

“This year was pretty good, but I think my favorite part was — and is — playing basketball. It’s awesome to have a new coach who is fun and knows what he’s doing.”

Zoe Whittle, Grinnell College

“I have to say that the best thing that happened to me this year was how quickly I found my place at college and all the wonderful people I’ve already met after one semester. It’s so cliché, but it’s true.”

Ladretta Valencia, Santa Fe Indian School

“The best thing that happened to me was meeting amazing and inspiring people. The new people I met are pretty awesome, and I’m so glad that I got to meet them because if I didn’t, I’d be really lost right now.”

Liese Rios, Desert Academy

“I volunteered at a sleep-away camp in Arizona called Camp Swift. It’s a camp for underprivileged and lowincome children. It was an incredible and life-changing experience.”

Zev Spaner, New Mexico School for the Arts

“The best thing that happened to me in 2017 was having the ability to drive by myself and having my own car. I finally have the ability to go anywhere I want without having to rely on anyone or anything, just myself. That complete freedom is one of the best feelings on earth.”

Aaron Marcus Tenorio, Santa Fe Indian School

“The best part of 2017 was joining Earth Care’s Youth Allies [a leadership program for youth activism in the community]. I made new friends and I learned so much from the instructors and my peers through everything we did together! It was a totally new experience where I had to face anxieties and fears, but I went through with it and I don’t regret it one bit!”