I was scared to death walking through the doors for the first time.

As a small incoming freshman, I feared everything from the big upperclassmen to getting lost in the school, getting endless amounts of homework and just not fitting in.

Little did I know that my freshman year would create some lasting memories.

One of my biggest fears came true within the first week of school. I signed up to take a business class as an elective, but when I walked into the class, I noticed it was predominantly upperclassmen.

Not only was I afraid to talk to nearly everyone in the class, I was in over my head and severely underestimated the amount of work. But the teacher was young and didn't make me feel like I shouldn't be there. I worked relentlessly through the entire semester to ensure I pulled an 'A' out of the class.

And in the end, it was not only one of the most enjoyable classes I have ever taken, but I also learned several things I'll use for the rest of my life. And it turned out those big upperclassmen weren't so bad after all.

The next semester, I decided to sign up for an agriculture class. At that time, I couldn't tell the difference between a flathead screwdriver and a monkey wrench. Again, I was in over my head. For example, I was shocked when I found out we would be learning how to drive a tractor. While I was excited at the new opportunity, I was nervous at how hard driving might be.

Our teacher told the class how to operate the tractor. But I could not pay attention because I had trouble understanding part of his first sentence and ended up missing all of the other directions. When he asked for questions, I showed off my brilliance by asking, "Um, what's a clutch?"

I was rewarded for my lack of basic knowledge by having the privilege of driving the tractor first.

To make my freshman year even more of a challenge, my mom started working as a secretary in the office. Most 14-year-olds are terribly embarrassed to even admit they have parents.

In one particular incident, I was eating lunch in our commons area when I spotted my mom working her way toward my table. I hoped and prayed she wouldn't come talk to me in front of half the school. But she did, and I was completely mortified at the fact she was talking to me in front of what felt like a million people. I don't think I listened to a word she said.

Somehow, like I survived my business class and driving a tractor, I managed to get through that experience.

And here I am four years later, four years older and 25 pounds heavier. I'm top dog of the school, the big bad senior everyone is supposed to fear.

Graduation is in sight, and I'm excited about that. However, looking back, I see I've matured and become a different person.

All within just four years.

I've gone to so many dances I've lost count. I found a new hobby when I turned out for the golf team, started playing the guitar, made new friends of all ages, and put countless hours into community service projects and homework -- all on very little sleep.

I've also matured enough to accept that it's OK to be seen in public with my mother. In fact, it's become more of a blessing to be able to have her at my school. Since she starts work after I leave for school, she notices things I leave behind or drop on my way out the door and brings them to me. And she almost always has candy on her desk for students, so I can stop by for a quick sugar fix on the way to my next class.

I even make sure to wave at her as she passes through the lunchroom.

I've also tried to make sure freshmen feel as comfortable as possible. I was in their position once and know just how terrifying it can be.

So I end high school with one final message to all those entering high school in the fall, or even those who still have a couple years left.

Be involved.

I've made lasting memories by simply being involved in anything and everything I can. Whether it's sports, leadership, ASB or just going to school sporting events, being around others helps create friendships as well as memories.

* Matt Rossow attends East Valley High School.