Senior Emily Edwards is ready to finish off her successful journey at Darlington and move on to a next chapter in her life.

Starting off as a cross country and track runner in her freshman year, Edwards has stuck with the sport for all four years of her high school career. For her final year, she set off a goal for herself in track.

“I was looking forward to running cross country and track this year.  I had gotten hurt last year and I am happy that I was able to be a part of the teams again. Cross country had a successful season and track has been off to a good start so far. My goal is to get a personal record in the two mile race this year,” Edwards said.

Besides the athletic aspect, Edwards also concentrates on her plan for senior year. She has to overcome the struggle of managing time between classes and college applications.

“Classes senior year are a lot easier than classes junior year. However, I don’t have a lot more free time because any extra time I had this year was spent writing essays for college.  I’m still writing them, even though it’s March. I didn’t realize how much work went into applying to college,” Edwards said. “It’s a lot more than just submitting the applications. I’ve had to apply separately for scholarships, living and learning communities and study abroad opportunities.  I’ve also had to find time to interview with colleges. I’m happy with my schedule, though, and I have enjoyed all of my classes this year.”

Being a day leader of Cooper House has helped Edwards to create connections with people from different countries. She enjoys the diversity at Darlington and it has left a great impact on her.

“It’s incredible that I have friends from all around the world, and I have learned so much about different cultures and ways of life during my time at Darlington,” Edwards said

In her senior year, Edwards decided to get involved in theater which has become an important part of her experience.

“I joined the winter musical for the first time this year, and I really wish I had joined sooner.  I had always been busy in the past because I was focusing on running, but I had so much fun with it this year.  I got to know some incredible and talented people,” Edwards said.

With only a few months left until graduation, Edwards thinks about where she would go for college.

“It hasn’t sunk in that I’m actually graduating, and it’s nerve wracking because I’m not sure where I’ll go to school next year yet. I am honestly in shock that graduation is so close. It’s so strange to think about.”