Ryan+A

A Portrait of the Aves as a Young Man [] Okay, take a look at this guy. I mean look at him. Most of you are probably like, oh my God, who is this little kid? Let’s all take a moment to judge him. First, look at his hair. So unkempt. His shirt, when’s the last time someone wore something like that? Seventh grade? LOOOOK at that fake, nervous smile. He’s so scared…it’s gonna be a long four years. Now look at this guy. And when I say guy, I mean MAN. He’s so confident, happy, poised…his swagger is on a hundred thousand trillion. What happened between those four years of high school that caused such a transformation? Lemme show ya. First thing I got into in high school was drama. And I’m not talking about baby-daddy drama or rumors or any of that sauce, I mean the theatre. Apparently I was alright, but I knew it wasn’t for me. The next outlet I pursued was swimming. That was an awesome experience. Of all the things I got involved in during high school, this was probably the most intense. 5:45 am practices, weekly pasta parties, spraying the rock, and getting to wear the falcon suit were just a few things that went on. Later on, I became captain both junior and senior years. Even though I had a good outlet and hobby with swimming, I still didn’t feel like I truly belonged anywhere. Then I started going to my church’s high school youth ministry. There, I met most of the friends I keep today, and I can honestly say that these are some of the best friends I have ever had. Also, I developed my faith in so many ways, and I can accredit that to making me the man I am today. During the warmer parts of the year, I ran track and cross country. Let me tell you, that was one hell of an experience. Pardon my swearing. Cross country is the type of sport that makes a man out of you- when you’re running 3+ miles in 90 degree weather uphill, constantly cursing yourself for ever allowing yourself to go through with this. But still, it was a great social activity, and I left a legacy on the XC team with Ryan’s Righteous Roar. Yeah, that’s it. After I felt a sense of belongingness in my school and community, I definitely got more comfortable with the lady-folk. Get it boy. I didn't date much, simply because I was too busy on my grind with school and everything else, but most of my close friends that I made were girls. The next few pictures will let you know what I mean. Oh yeah I almost forgot. Spirit Week. Every time that came around at GH, I got so excited because it was a chance for me to dress and look as obnoxious as possible without getting nasty looks or getting into trouble for violating the dress code. Most people say "wow, isn't it amazing how fast high school just flew by?" to which I respond, "uhhhh no! It feels like it took for-friggin-ever!" But even though it was a long and arduous road, it's strange that it's all over. It kinda makes me wonder how fast my next four years at UNC will fly by. I hope not too fast. Whoooooa. I'm going to college next year.