Valedictorian Gabriela MacArthur urges classmates to embrace imperfection and connection

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over Bowie High School's graduation ceremony, the air buzzed with excitement and anticipation. Families gathered, their hearts swelling with pride as they prepared to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025. Among the graduates, Gabriela Catalina MacArthur stood poised to deliver her valedictory address, a moment she had long awaited.

Gabriela, who plans to attend Rice University to study creative writing and medical humanities, took the stage with a message that resonated deeply with her peers. She began by reflecting on the challenges they faced during their high school years, particularly the abrupt transition from middle school to high school due to the pandemic. "We were isolated, friendships disintegrated, and we lost those we care about," she shared, her voice steady yet filled with emotion.

Her speech was not just a recounting of struggles; it was a call to embrace imperfection and the beauty of life. "When all else fails, give up," she humorously quoted her brother, but quickly clarified that this was not a defeatist mantra. Instead, she urged her classmates to let go of their obsessions with perfection. "You do not have to be 100% perfect all the time because it is quite literally impossible," she said, encouraging them to focus on living fully and joyfully.

Gabriela emphasized the importance of human connection, reminding her classmates that they were not alone in their struggles. "Life can be hard sometimes, but it is ultimately made worth it by the people around us," she noted, highlighting the support they provided each other through letters, FaceTime calls, and shared experiences during difficult times.

As she concluded her heartfelt address, Gabriela left her classmates with a powerful reminder: "Our lives are not measured in years, but in the lives of people we touch around us." The crowd erupted in applause, a testament to the impact of her words and the shared journey they had all experienced.

The ceremony also recognized the achievements of other graduates, including salutatorian Arthur Chen, who received a plaque for his accomplishments. As families cheered and celebrated, the atmosphere was filled with hope and promise for the future, marking not just an end, but a new beginning for the Class of 2025.