Ughh I'm terrible at this. Well, I should explain the "this" so as to not commit the cardinal sin of ambiguity.
I don't like endings. Well, when I get right up close and personal thinking about it, I don't like beginnings either.
I guess that makes me more of a "middle" person.
The awkwardness of first impressions, the anxiety of expectations either met or not met (depending on what they are--both can be stressful)--it's a jumble of heart-thumping, shallow breathing and knots-in-the-stomach over things said, unsaid, done or undone--ugh. It's all horrible.
But, like most things in 204, this is not about me.
So, in the interests of keeping this blog all about you, I would like you to think back on our year together, compile your best memories, anecdotes, lessons, words of wisdom and final requests and say farewell to our Lang class, in any way you would like.
Odds are, you may all have each other in classes again next year, and if I'm very lucky, perhaps I will be blessed enough to see you gracing 204 for AoP (or EPA or AP Lunch...whatever. I'm not picky) or just during your free time. It will be my sincere pleasure, indeed.
If not, though, please know that it has been a humbling and enlightening experience to meet you all--and one I'll not soon forget.
Thank you all for an amazing year. You have been a gift, truly.
Love always,
Bunj
Oh boy, this is a very open-ended post.
ReplyDeleteI, too, do not care for endings because I simply do not care for many things and I see no reason why endings should not be one of them. This dislike for endings comes up all too often in my life; for example, when I read books. Right now, I am reading Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring”, which is really, really, really good. I am also simultaneously reading the completely unrelated “Art of War” by Sun Tzu (which is actually a lot shorter than I thought it would be). Also, I have been skipping around in Howard Zinn’s “A People’s History of the United States” and ‘The Holy Bible”, and took a temporary leave of absence from Carl Sagan’s “The Demon-Haunted World”, which is very good despite my taking a break from it. I guess my mind cannot stay in the same place for the length of an entire book, and so that is why I need to read multiple books at one time, but it may also be because I do not want the stream of knowledge to end so, instead of ending the stream, closing a book, and starting a new one, I just keep adding to the stream without closing any. This is why I prefer movies, documentaries, short stories, and essays to full length books: they are short and easily accessible to the point of able to be watched/read seemingly continuously.
However, I do not need to end anything at this moment because I plan on taking Art of Persuasion next year, having been forced to take an art class and AP Art History (a class which I would love to take) not being offered at Oakcrest. To compensate for AP Art History’s absence at the Oak, I have chosen to self-study art history and take AoP, which, on the bright side, is taught by an AP teacher and has the letters “AP” in it, despite being separated by an “O”, so, absence of disgusting AP GPA weighting aside, it basically is an AP class. Woohoo.
However, now just realizing, after writing the previous paragraph, that I was wrong, I will detail the one thing that does end and that I do need to say goodbye to: the AP Lang exam. To be honest, that exam was so fun. I know I could have done better because I was really tired and in a bad mood when I took it, so much so that I had a lot of trouble concentrating. Moreover, I did not proofread my essays but, other than that, the test was amazing. (But I am not saying that I got a 5, so do not get your hopes up.) Now that the test is gone, I feel like I lost a part of me, the part of me that wants to sit in one spot for over four hours (I took the AP Macroeconomics exam, which was also fun, right after the AP Lang one) and engage in numerous wonderful activities such as perfecting my color-in-the-lines skills as well as my overall creativity. When they handed me that coloring book, the AP Lang Answer Booklet, I felt like a kid again, that a dull black-and-white world was delivered to me and I was able to play God and give it color, and life. I flew through that answer booklet with such enthusiasm, thrilled to bestow upon the dull AP world the beauty of my answers, of my darkened bubbles of knowledge. All this is gone. And I feel lost. I will forever miss you, AP English Language and Composition Exam, as I would miss my pancreas if it were brutally hacked out of my body with a hand-saw, because, like my pancreas, the exam gave me hope, and life, and everything I could want and ask for in an organ, and now that it is gone, I realize how much I loved it to begin with.
Eternally Yours,
Bryan
I am definitely a middle person. I do not like meeting new people because I am a very shy person at first. I hate the whole meeting people thing because it takes a while for me to warm up and in that time I feel dumb because I am not myself. Middle is fun. In the middle you are relaxed and most goofy. Then there is the ending…which has got to be the worst part. I am the type of person that will cry about anything. Whether I'm emotionally unstable or I laughed too hard or just something upsetting happened in a movie that may not even have been supposed to be sad you can peep me crying my eyes out. Just know I cried while watching Ted because I really thought he died for a second. Besides the point I too hate endings. BUT...... dat da da dah I signed up for AoP!!!:) So luckily our "goodbye" is only a "see you later"!!!!
ReplyDeleteFav memory hmmm would have to be the talent show. Since AP testing was over we were all stress free and goofy. I loved how everyone had really random but superly awesome talents. This was such an awesome class period because the entire time everyone was genuinely happy and having a good time. Along with the talent show I would have to say the class periods where we really got to talk about certain things were memorable. Being able to have deep conversations where the bell would end them because time flew were the most interesting ones.
Although I do not have any final requests I do have a "I cannot wait" !!! I know they are nothing alike but I just cannot wait for your OP about all of us !!!! I can't believe we are almost down to single digit days which means only a few more days till you reveal the juicy details of what you thought about us all year.
One major lesson that I have learned from AP Lang is something Bunje stresses, do not judge other's opinions. I am a very opinionated person and when it comes to controversial topics I feel that sometimes there is a discrete line between right and wrong and people are whacky if they agree with wrong. However I have learned that if I feel strongly that I am right and someone feels differently that is okay because in their heard they are the ones agreeing with the right. Overall you can hardly change someone's mind on a controversial topic so you should just let them be. Let them think what they think and let yourself think whatever you believe because it is your opinion and opinions are a judgement formed by you. Be nice and do not judge because that is mean and unnecessary.
gnight and love you all
xoxo,
HC
I am not going say farewell because we have a year left before we undergo this massive separation. I’ll simply see you later. With that said, oh the memories we had, they’re something alright. From the stars to JY juggling I think I have seen it all in 204. I remember the first week when we began making our stars. It was the start of something new and wonderful. It makes me happy to see that no matter what we went through in our individual lives, coming through the 204 doors made everything better because we always have something looking out after, upon us. The stars but more importantly Bunje.
ReplyDeleteI have learned so many things in and out of the “classroom” from 204 and the people who inhabit the room, it’s hard to think it’s all over. Therefore I am glad it’s not, sorta. Most of us Lang kids plan on taking AoP and those who don’t, guess the rest of us will just have to convince them and guilt trip them. Because the amount of fun and memories does not only depend on what a person makes of their own experiences but the people they want and choose to surround themselves with. It won’t be the same, but in this case it won’t be better.
My favorite memory, because there are so many I feel like I can’t just choose one. The talent show was definitely top 5 of course. Everyone did something that was special to them. Another one would be occasional papers, mostly listening to others. It provided inspiration and insight into other people’s lives. I guess my top one would be reading my own occasional paper. My third one to be exact. My list of 10 “over-exaggerated-radical-truths” that I truly believed I would never say out loud let alone to a crowd of 50 some people during our 1st annual spring fling party. It was an interesting experience to say the least.
I do not have any final requests because although I do not request often, my final one won’t come until next year. And whatever it might be, might not even be the last one because I’ll just end up texting you or contacting you, freaking out over college or something I know it!
One major lesson I have learned from Bunje, is to take a breath and evaluate. In the past, or so I have heard, I know this was difficult for you Bunje because you have so much passion and love that who will always take drastic action when necessary. But throughout the year along with the rest of your kids you too learned to reflect and grow with patience. And even though I wasn’t nor am an impulsive person I realized from your actions how important reflection is. Taking a step back and evaluating how your life is going and sometimes just laughing over it is the key to a better future and happy life. Taking that extra second changes a person’s whole perspective. And that could make or break relationships that we hold dearly. No need to destroy something so wonderful that could be saved with time.
Even though there are many things I can and should say goodbye to, one thing I refuse to let go of is the people, at least for another year. However I should take this time to say goodbye to AP Language and Composition as well the Lang Exam and maybe even some of the seniors that I have come to admire. But to everything else, I say, see you later.
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ReplyDeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteThe last blog… I’m not sure what to say. I’ve enjoyed a lot of the topics discussed so far (love, gifts, etc.). However, I do not want to say goodbye to my fellow classmates. Hopefully, I will see a majority of you next year around school, in classes, and outside of school, but we still have two summers together. 208 days of summer before many of us never see each other again. (I know I’m leaving Jersey and probably never coming back.) Though, I would like to reflect on my junior year in room 204 with an amazing class.
ReplyDeleteThe first time I stepped into 204, I was anxious. My first AP English class. The first craft I’ve made in school since middle school is one of the best stars and proudly displays my name. My first declamation was short which made me ecstatic. My first occasional paper. My first in class party junior year. My first AP exam. My first talent show... My last talent show. My last occasional paper. My last declamation. My last star. (My schedule wouldn’t allow me to take all of my classes and AoP next year. :/ ) I’m not a morning person at all. I do not think clearly in the mornings. But, my lang class woke me up. The random interesting conversations that made me laugh. Haley’s swanky accent. Teagen’s nonexistent words. Altea’s OP’s. I will miss all of it. My second period lang class <3 .
I feel as though this year has helped me grow as a person and an articulate speaker and writer. I still have a lot to learn and am excited for the year to come but equally sad this one must end.
Wow, so where do I began. Let’s just start off with I have had the best experience in room 204. Even though I haven’t talked much in there or acted as if I could care less, I actually did and I wouldn’t want to change any moment of it. Not only have I learned things academically but I was also taught things that I could carry into my adult life which would absolutely help me. I had a rough start, well I think we all did. Walking in I didn’t know what to expect, I heard from previous students that the class was very rigorous and in order to do well you have to stay on top of all your work. In my head I was wondering if I could handle all this, I never taken a class that resembled a college class. At first I struggled with almost all the work, I wasn’t good as essays, my vocabulary sucked, and I couldn’t really comprehend most readings. After, almost 180 days of school I realized I accomplished a lot this year, all with the help of one teacher. I can finally say all the things I didn’t understand or have in the beginning I now do, not completely, but more than I did. AP Lang gave me great preparation for college, I learned in order to get what I want I must work for it, and just because you fail a couple times at first doesn’t mean there is no room for success. I will miss every moment we had together. From you pressuring us for.the SATs and the AP exam to giving us heart to heart conversations about how much you believe in us.
ReplyDeleteOne major lesson, or the one that stuck with me the most is how you always told us to never be ashamed of who were are, that we must be more confident. The reason that probably stayed with me is because I never really had anyone (besides my parents) who knew that there was way more to us than we thought. The moment we thought we weren’t S*** you picked our heads back up telling us how amazing each one of us is. At a time we all needed you you were always there, I guess that's why people call you their “second mom.”
Well, I guess it is time to say goodbye even though i’ll be seeing most of you next year. Thank you for all your help Bunje and everything you do for us and also to my wonderful classmates who no matter what have smiles on their faces trying to make the best out of everything.
Wow. I can't believe this is the last blog post. This year really flew by. Having spent a whole school year in 204, I've learned a lot of useful things. I've learned how to write better, read better, and I've even learned how to enhance my recorder skills with Altea during our Christmas party. Lang parties were one of the best parts of the year. I loved how it felt to come together and celebrate in such a family-oriented place. It was so much fun to be in second period Lang. Everyone really came together this year and the friendly atmosphere was comforting, especially when it came to reading essays in front of the class. Overall, I can't complain about this year. With Lang being such a rigorous course, it definitely made it easier having a comfortable classroom, supportive teacher, and loving class/FAMILY. Lang allowed us to bond on an intellectual and personal level. It was great to have a class that connected so well.
ReplyDeleteMy favorite lesson in Lang would have to be acceptance. This year, we read and discussed lots of touchy subjects. From "The Case for Reparations," to Lifeboat Ethics, and so on, I've learned to understand and consider all sides to a story. I liked all of the exposure we got in Lang this year. I liked talking about things that made people uncomfortable because despite the initial awkwardness, these conversations promote understating. Lang also taught me a lot about being tactful and empathetic. Throughout the year, we were there for each other no matter what. We learned how to respect one another and how to be less judgmental. This class taught me a lot about life in the classroom but more importantly, lessons that can be applied to anything.
Goodbyes aren't something I'm good at either. In fact, yesterday, my dad informed me that my great grandfather was dying and he wouldn't have much time left. I called him on the phone knowing that this could be my last goodbye to him. Although goodbyes are always sad, they're inevitable. But, it's always about perspective. I could sit here and cry about how my great grandfather is dying or, I could choose a new perspective. My great grandfather is 90 years old. He lived through the Great Depression, WW2, and a lot more hardship than I've ever encountered. More than that, he's had 90 awesome years and he looks back on his life with nothing less than joy. It's almost selfish to want him here with us because truthfully so, he wants to be with his wife in heaven. He teases every time I go visit him and says, "Jess, I'm just waiting to check-out!" Although this is upsetting to me because I wish I could have him here forever, I understand that he wants to be in a better place. So now that I'm done my tangent, you can see I'm really not good at goodbyes. Sometimes in life you're not ready to say goodbye but once you do, you realize it's for the better. Goodbyes mark an ending to the past but also a "hello" to something new. So goodbye AP Lang, ilysm.
Hello AoP!!! (Hopefully)
with love to all my fellow langers,
Lil JK
xoxo
June 1st. Last blog post. Feels strange. What feels even stranger is that junior year, AKA “the year of hell,” is coming to a close. An inevitable and definite ending. Looking back now, all I can think about is the time and effort that I put into this class, and the life lessons and unparalleled joy that I received in return. Something about the consistency and familiarity of Lang made it comforting, and writing all of the time was a helpful form of catharsis (even though my AP Psych textbook says catharsis isn’t always the best way to cope with feelings).
ReplyDeleteWhat scared me immensely about AP Lang was the up close and personal, nitty gritty, in your face, questions that we sometimes had to answer. But I found that even though I was unable to shed all my walls to answer those questions, seeing my classmates around me shed theirs gave me a lot of insight and allowed me to see them in a different light. Which is why I enjoyed hearing OPs, and also immensely enjoyed the Christmas blog where we gave people gifts. By the way, I’d like to personally thank all of the people who gave me gifts. I didn’t exactly know how to thank you in person, so I never thanked you at all, because I’m good at avoiding things. Regardless, your kind words did not go unnoticed or unappreciated, because I read some of those blog posts and cried. I never knew that people in my classes even thought about me twice. So yeah, thanks.
But undoubtedly, OPs were my favorite part of AP Lang. My OPs were never my favorite, but hearing other people’s was just utterly fascinating. In high school everything seems to be transparent and short-lived, but hearing people talk about their lives and their feelings made me realize that none of us are transparent, and we are so real, and no one’s life is “easy” by any means.
And I know this is a blog about AP Lang, but can I just talk about mock trial for a second??? The last time I talked about mock trial was in my 2nd marking period OP, and I remember holding it together before falling apart at page 4 and hysterically crying in front of the entire class. God, I love mock trial. So much so, that I’m sometimes unable to put it into words. More than anything, this entire junior year, I’ve felt alone. I don’t really have that corner where I fit in, and I’m not outgoing enough to be liked by everybody, so mock trial became home to me. It is the only place (besides maybe OHSGT) that I feel acknowledged. I don’t have to filter what I say in the hopes that people will like me, and I don’t have to be anyone but myself. If there is anything about junior year that I will remember (because my brain has repressed all of the bad memories), it will be giving my closing at my last trial. I’m never really satisfied with my work, but standing there in my all-black attire, staring down a jury of people, I felt good. Really good. And sitting back down in my seat, and knowing that the people sitting behind me supported me-- that’s a feeling that I might not feel ever again. I will cherish it forever.
I didn’t sign up for AoP next year because I decided to finish my last year of Latin. I don’t know if I regret that yet. I probably will. So I’m one of the unlucky few that has to definitively say goodbye. But I don’t really know how to do that, so I’ll just say thank you. Thank you to my classmates for listening to what I have to say and what I have to write, and thank you to Bunje for being there for me when no one else was. I find that I’m always regretting things in my life, but one thing I definitely do not regret was taking AP Lang. And despite those hours and hours of grueling hard work, in a heartbeat, I would do it all over again.
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ReplyDeleteI still can’t believe the year is almost over. In 8 more days (school days), we’ll be freakin’ seniors!! That’s crazy. I guess the saying is true: time flies when you’re having fun. This year has been an interesting one, one that I will definitely never forget. Freshmen year was fun. Sophomore year was a blur. But junior year: no words can describe it.
ReplyDeleteWaking up at 5:30 was a husk.
Chem was a total joke.
I took naps regularly throughout the day.
I tripped every morning over this stupid rock while walking to the bus stop.
Latin III gave me headaches.
And I pretty much went to the “nurse” during stocks every other day.
But mornings with Clark were awesome.
I made friends with people I never even imagined being friends with.
Study hall in the library with Justin and Cait always brightened my mood.
Teasing Jasmine during math with Cynthia was a blast.
Having my three buddies with me in latin was a blessing.
And taking Lang was the best part of it all.
Lang was great, not going to lie. It was strenuous and felt long, but it was also the only REAL class I had this year. And it was fun! I remember making the stars and being really confused while doing it. I remember the looks on your faces when I read my first OP. Or that time we spent months writing about Abigail Adams. I remember Manny’s renowned question, “Is my blue your blue?”, and Enrique’s very invective v-day cards. I remember having parties and eating your famous buffalo dip like a madman. And I remember Pierce’s hilarious side-comments during class. But I would have to say my favorite memory of it all (besides the talent show) was the very moment we finished the AP exam. Not only was a huge weight lifted off our shoulders, but for some reason, we all instinctively went to your class Bunj, the lovely room 204. It was the first time all of us langers were in one place together. All sixty something of us in one tiny classroom talking, laughing, eating, playing hacky sack. We were just chillin’, and it was great! Honestly, it felt like a big family.
For those of you who haven’t heard my last OP, I wrote a (Dr. Seuss inspired) poem and dedicated it to my class. But period 6 or not, my OP poem goes out to all of you guys!
(Here is just a snippet)
“From stories, and life lessons,
to great memories and more,
it was never a bore,
when it came to Ms. Bunje’s room 204.
And may this be,
the last time we’ll ever see,
Don’t worry, don’t stew
just continue on,
I’m sure we’ll meet again one day soon.
Each and every one of you,
So bright, so cool,
I know you’ll go far,
And you must always know that too.
Whether it be an astronaut, or teacher,
or doctor, or singer,
Whatever you are,
I just hope you’re happy.”
The last line is important. Whether you’re taking AoP next year or not, you guys will always be in my heart and I want the best for you. We have one more year together before we all part ways. It’s a little bittersweet. But as Bunje says, you just gotta take it “one day at a time”.
This year has been an interesting one, especially with lang. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.
This is not a "goodbye." This is an "I'll see you soon." And you will. We have one more year here at Oak. One more year to create more memories with the people we've known for our whole lives before we move on to new beginnings. That's a whole one-hundred and eighty days. One-hundred and eighty days that you will still see us, Bunj. You can be almost one-hundred percent sure that all of us will visit you at least once a month. And that only applies to those whom you won't have in your class.
ReplyDeleteThis year was all about memories. And I only say that because I feel like I've accomplished and experienced so much this year compared to the other years I've spent in high school. But that's probably because we have gained the freedom to drive anywhere, anytime as most of us turned seventeen.
Some of my best memories have taken place in 204. One being adding Manny to the GC during the annual AP Lang Christmas Party. Another being the talks that happen during eighth period. But, ones that will always stay with me consists of the deep, eye-opening, life lessons that come out of the many discussions we have as a class. "Life lessons" meaning lessons that deal with life itself. Lessons that taught me that life is what I make of it and while it and the people in it may suck, I decide how I live my life and my attitude towards it. One of the first things that I remember you telling us, during our first week in your class, consists of six simple words. "Fake it until you are it." Not until you "make" it, but until you "are" it. That has just stuck with me since. If I want to do something with my life that may not be in my comfort zone, then I have to do whatever it takes to do it until I become comfortable. Because life is all about being uncomfortable.
But while life isn't about being one-hundred percent comfy, I am comfortable with the people that I have gotten closer to this year. Although I've known almost everyone in my grade since Shaner, I haven't gotten to really known some until this year. But I'm glad I have. They've definitely made my year as well as my life better than I would've ever imagined. Great friends and life lessons are two of the most important needs in order to survive in the real world that comes after high school. Well, at least those and an amazing teacher. So, Ms. Bunje, I'll be seeing you next year. ;)
Beginnings, endings, middles are all usually the same for me. I stay detached so I have never felt like I really really needed something. I guess not till this year. I gotta tell you, Junior year wasn’t as terrible as expected. I didn’t cry over my work. I never had breakdowns. I stayed calm. I guess I always usually stay calm when busy because I know I’ll get it done and that’s that. But I expected that my lax ways would die down once the heaviest workload came about. Nah. I did, though, learn so much.
ReplyDeleteI thought about how much better I could of done on the exam so that kinda sucks.
I don’t remember reading any of the AP passages….so difficult. But, I wish I could change my rhetorical analysis!!!!! (that coulda been fire)
Anyways, I thank this year and AP Lang and 204 for continuously making me laugh. I thank the people from all the lang classes and Bunj for being my family.
Listen, I’m not that great with advice, I’m terrible at being serious, I can’t make up my mind, I never know what to do, I don’t know what I like--BUT I’m here for all of you.
I will miss laughing with Bryan everyday about how we didn’t study and how we were just gonna wing it and all the things neither of us understood.
I will miss taunting JY about how he said “Donna bad”.
I will miss Pierce jamming out or doing some other completely dramatic thing.
And I’ll miss Heather sticking her damn middle finger at me at least once everyday(the days she come)
I miss Sam that’s a for sure.
I know this isn’t Lang like but I will miss saying “Fuck it, Senya Year!!” in Latin with Donna, Zach, and Teag everytime I fail because next time I say it, it will actually be senior year and the joke is gone.
I will miss all my pothead friends and lunch table that have integrated themselves into 204 and make me so so happy.
Lang/204/Bunj has for sure brought people together. I think this year a lot of us lost the sense of family in this god damn of a prison, but I know I got one.
I have no idea where I’m going with this.
TBT to Manny’s first day!!! I have never talked to you before Lang, so glad I met ya...kinda
I’ll miss my boo’s----all of them (;
I think this is becoming of list of some sort...hmm.
Well, I’m so glad Andrea and I can complain about the friends in our lives we kinda claim.
Anyways, I’m going to be missing so many things about 204/Lang--definitely not that damn vocab, but I have grown. I have grown to finally rely on people.
I never really missed people. Ever. Like over the summer or wknd or break, but I didn’t see Teagen for two days and I legit missed her. Weird. Gross.
Love is weird. I’m actually a great match maker speaking of love---5 successful relationships.
Bryan and Janet are definitely my prize. You’re welcome.
On that note, love you all.
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ReplyDeleteAhhhhhh! Lang is near the brink of being over! That’s crazy! Man, this year has been an overwhelmingly great one with ya’ll. All the laughs we had, the stories we shared, the late nights, the stress, the tears and so on, made coming to school worth it. Choosing to be in 204 was one of my the best decisions I've !ade in high school and I bet all of you would say the same!e thing. This class truly changed my perspective on life and my future. All the things I learned in this class, particularly life lessons, opened new opportunities for me to be prepared and successful in the near furture. And it’s because of mom in this lang fam, Cassandra ? Bunje:))) (what's your middle name?!!)
ReplyDeleteI barely rememder things from the past but I can always remember the times we had in 204 because they are unfogetable moments. My most favorite moment was definitely AP Lang Got Talent! That 45 minutes of my day was full of laughter and joy! Seeing everyone having a good time goofing off and showing our AMAZING talents, made my stomach hurt and eyes tear from all the laughter but also made me happy.
As for my final requests, other than you middle name that I won't get lol, is I to hear all your thoughts of this year and on us; your unedited 2 HR LONG OP!! Ooooo I can not wait for the last day of school for you to reveal your thoughts. 2 weeks left!!!
Now, this isn’t a “goodbye”!!!! We still have one more year to see each other again ( hopefully in AOP). I want to get out of this school nut I can't imagine ever having a class like this, that’s like family, in college:( But it’s not that time yet. For now it’s just a “see you later!”
Hugs and kisses and MORE HUGS!
yours truly,
Claire Bear:)
I cannot believe this school year is already coming to a close, it feels like just yesterday was September 1st and our first day in AP Lang. As I am looking back on this school year, I remember all of the homework, essays, tests, and quizzes we endured, but I also remember all of the fun, laughs, and meaningful conversations we had as well. I am so glad everyone chose to take AP Lang this year because I could not imagine what this past year would have been like without any of my classmates.
ReplyDeleteIn these past ten months I have made a lot of great memories that I will never forget. Some of these memories include, our various holiday parties, listening to everyone’s OP’s, and, of course, the fifth annual AP Lang talent show. Within all of these events, we watched Alfonso and Tim sing their Mario Kart love song, watched Kassia’s awesome tap dancing skills to the cup song, listening to all of Bryan’s OP’s, while trying to listen to whatever Joe attempts to say in class. But we also can not forget about the conversations Bunje had with us: the meaningful talks throughout the year that ranged anywhere from worldwide issues to problems here at Oakcrest. Bunje always kept us thinking from different points of views and made us think of things we have never contemplated before. With her and because of these conversations, I now look at the world questioning and pondering because I now care and understand and want to know what is going on so I can be apart of a solution to any problem. Her starting off class talking to us is a sign she cared about us, instead of just immediately teaching us the next lesson. This by far has been one of my favorite memories, which made my Junior year one of my favorite years.
Love always,
Cait Beck
xoxo
Wow, time really passes by fast. I cannot believe that this is our last blog. It felt like just yesterday was the first day of school. I just want to start off by saying that I really enjoyed Lang this year. It was probably one of my favorite classes that I took this year. I learned more from Lang than any other classes. I learned life lessons and survival skills to life. Although, I had panic attacks because of the amount of work we had, but in the end it was all worth it.
ReplyDeleteThe best memory was probably the Lang Talent Show. I mean where else can we find Alfonso in a cheerleading outfit, dancing with makeup on. Lang is the only class we can find Tim and Alfonso singing the Mario Kart love song. It was a good way to relieve our stress after all those AP tests. It was a assignment that everyone loved doing and it was fun to perform in front of people we have grown close to throughout the year. Also, I really enjoyed writing and reading OPs for Lang. Everyone has really good topics to write about for their OPs. The OPs was a good way to communicate our feelings or share our frustrations with the class. We all go through the same problems and it was good to know that other people go through the same problems as you do so we can sympathize with each other.
One lesson I learned from Lang was that, it is essential to express our feelings to the people we trust the most. Bottling so much inside can break us at one point. We just need to let out our frustrations sometimes and knowing that there is other people there to listen to us, makes us feel satisfied. Use the OPs as a way to get away from all troubles of high school, and simply just let out all your frustrations on the paper.
Lastly, I am sad that our year in Lang has finally come to an end. I had a great time in Lang and just simply being part of the 204 gang. But do not be fooled, because this is not a goodbye. We will definitely see each other next year again. Even if I do not get AoP on my schedule, I will come by and visit. But most importantly Bunje, I will miss you for the duration of summer break and I just want to thank you for everything you have done for me because to me, you are truly the greatest teacher.
Love,
Sandy Chen
Now I'm not the best with words, or many things at that, but it has been a great year and it's sad that it has to end, at least the Lang part of the year. There were so many good things about Lang this year ranging from staying up until 2 in the morning to late night SAT practice. Just kidding, there was star day, the Christmas party, the talent show, and so much more. This year was full of fun and great stories. I will never forget the things that I learned in Lang or the unique ways I learned them. I will never forget about the case for lobsters which by the way I had this weekend. Lang made my year so enjoyable, no matter how stressed I was about Lang, I was always in the mood for a good Lang lesson. English is going to be very different next year but at least I will have AOP to look forward to.
ReplyDeleteYour Best Friend,
Joe Fraone
This year in 204 has definitely been a great one. I don't think there was one day in Lang class where I didn't get a laugh from either bunje or my crazy classmates. Whether it was Ryan rapping to the alphabet, larry dropping eggs all over the floor, or Kennedy shoving grapes in her mouth I couldn't have asked for a better time spent this year. I've always looked forward to coming to this class becuase I never knew what to expect. Bunje always made sure that everyday was different and productive and made sure her class was never filled with boredom. Everyone in room 204 is a family and I'm so glad that we have a safe place to go to in oakcrest. I've learned so many things from Ap Lang this year and I'm going to miss it dearly.
ReplyDeleteOne major thing I learned from taking AP Lang is that it's okay to be wrong sometimes. I say this becuase during Lang all year we've had an atmosphere in 204 where you don't have to be afraid to be wrong becuase were all a family. Our classroom is a room where nobody judges people for their imperfections and everyone is looked at equally. We share things in that room that some people don't know and we can do that becuase we all trust each other. You can't say that about every classroom you walk in at oakcrest.
This year bunje has also taught me to never let people walk over you. After hearing bunjes many stories about people trying to take advantage of her but her not letting it happen and then her gaining respect from it has showed me that I can do the same. I truly look up to bunje and the way she cares deeply about her job and her students. Shes so passionate about the things she believes in and I hope one day I can be as strong of a person as she is. She's like a second mom to all of her students and you don't get many teachers who are like that.
I'm going to miss the 204 room like crazy but I hope I still get to see everyone next year and the years to come. Lang has really impacted my life in a positive way and I couldn't be happier that I decided to take this class. Like everyone says I truly learned a lot about myself through the blogs , my OP's and declamations. I feel more comfortable talking in front of people and got to leave this class with a family. I will never forget this year and my 204 FAM. This will all go down in my memory book as a time I will never forget! I hope everyone has great luck in the future and succeeds at everything they do. I love you all , and this is not a goodbye it's more like a see you later. :)
"Last blog" sounds so weird to me. This school year flew by even though the days seemed to drag on by and to be honest I didn't get a lot out of junior year. I sure as hell got a lot of of AP Lang, Bunje, 204, and the kids I was surrounded by. I hate goodbyes as well and I was always that one kid that would cry on the last day in middle school while all my other friends were excited for summer. I like change, I can cut off my hair and die it a completely different color, I can jump from math to English, but I'm not good at saying goodbye. Especially to people. If that's makes any kind of sense.
ReplyDeleteI learned some really big words that help me in arguments, every day life, and of course on the SATs. I have so many good memories that took place in 204 that I will have in my heart forever. The couch and my desk and room 204 in general was my home away from home and I can't be any more grateful. This isn't over, it's just a little break because next year my ass will be right back in that couch and desk throughout the day.
When it comes to final requests, I have none. I received everything I need through 204 and Lang from new friends and new knowledge. This was a horrible year but the class and classroom has made it a little easier and I am so fortunate for that.
Thank you Bunje for setting me up. Setting me up for the real world. Setting me up for college. For my exam. For future essays. For the SATs. And thank you for molding me into a better person. Love you.
And ps, Taylor I'll miss you too. And whenever you find yourself thinking of me just flip yourself off. I Love ya girlfriend
Wow to think that I survived the whole year in AP Lang is crazy. Never have i imagined I would have stayed the whole time because I'm really dumb lol. Everyone talked about how hard the class was and all the stress it put them through which was true. This class was not nearly what I expected it to be besides the hard and stressfulness. Taking this class was one of the best decision I've made junior year. Not just because it helped me use bigger and better words but because I met you Bunj. Having someone not afraid to speak their mind, there when you need advice, and just someone to hang with when you want to skip class or clear your mind. Your one of my favorite teachers and you encourage me to do better things. Hearing from you that I'm a good writing and that I'm smart showed me that I actually am because you wouldn't tell me no bs. I'm going to miss the lit term posters, Ang and I giving each other the look when we thought we were too dumb to be in the class, or stressing about test and homework when I knew what j was doing all along. This year I've learned so many things that non of my teachers taught me. Not just things about school but things about life also. It's good having someone there to listen or just talk to when I'm bored. You treat all the Lang kids like your babies and I love that. Whenever someone needs something your there. Your a shoulder to cry on and although I haven't cried this year, I know you'll be there when I need you. To think that I won't be writing OP's, reading declamations, or taking Sat vocab for the next 3 months kinda sucks. Becoming part of 204 has been an amazing adventure and it's not over yet. Sorry you can't get rid of me just yet. Peep me as your EPA and in AOP next year! Love ya Bunj!
ReplyDeleteLove always,
SI SI
I remember over the summer, during FTP training, I asked several of your previous students about you as a teacher and your class. Nothing, bad, just the usual questions.
ReplyDeleteHow was AP Lang?
What did you like or dislike about the class?
Is she mean?
Are you sure she isn’t mean?
Is the class really really hard? You sure?
Will I cry every night?
Are you sure she is going to like me? What if she doesn’t?
I walked into your class on the first day in fear. In fear that you would not like me. In fear that you would not help me as much as Clark did. In fear that I would not make it through you class. In fear that I would be unable to meet your high expectations. In fear that if I made eye contact with you, you would suck the soul out of my body with that death stare of yours.
Well I was wrong. It was nothing to fear. We got along very well. You instilled a great sense of confidence in me. Sure, the class was difficult, but I managed to push myself through it (I actually did better than I expected). I learned to love writing again. I became a stronger writer. I learned how to properly express my opinion. And last but not least, I had the opportunity to meet you Bunj-- an amazing and supportive teacher.
There are way too many memories to choose from, so essentially, what I am saying is that every moment in 204 was my favorite. From the first day I walked into 204, to the stressful days where we were fed tons of information, to the days we held class discussions, to the popping holiday parties in 204, to the days dedicated to OP Palooza, to the 204 Talent Show, all the way up until this day.
Over the course of this year I…
Became close with many new classmates
Strengthened the bond between me and my previous friends
Met a wonderful teacher
Improved as a student
Became a stronger writer
However, none of this would have occurred if I did not take AP Lang, and if I did not have you as a teacher.
So, Bunj, I want to thank you. Thank you for being there for me, when no one else was. Thank you for always having confidence in me, even when I didn’t. Thank you for pushing me to the limit. Thank you for teaching me everything there is to know about lang and life. Thank you, for everything.
ReplyDeleteOh Lang. AP Lang. I will not miss you(the AP part). I will not miss the dreaded nights of studying for that horrible AP test that I definitely failed. I will not miss the everlasting Abigail Adams and the recurrent lit term tests. And let's not forget extreme overload of work that will not be missed. However, I will forever miss the atmosphere of learning in 204. Room 204 is like a safe haven. Everyone is welcome and it is like another home. It’s where I’ve skipped my favorite class anatomy all the time. 204 is where I’ve poured out my feelings and opened up my mind. 204 is where I learned knowledge that will last for a life time and knowledge that will prepare me for the real world and college. The weekly blogs will forever be missed because even though everyone complained about doing them I love them and they are my favorite. Lang really opened me up and helped me reach my potential. AP Lang was not just an overwhelming amount of stress and work, it was a class that taught me so many new things and helped me prospere, and that, that is what I will miss. I remember walking into lang as a little junior my first day completely petrified. Bunje no offense but you scared the shit out of me. I love but I was pretty intimidated. You just gave me a view of what lang was going to be like and I was so worried you would hate me or something. Lets just say the nervousness I felt didn’t leave until like the middle of the year. The first week of school I remember you gave everyone a lit term and I didn’t hear what mine was and I was so scared to tell you and ask because I thought you would like hate me or something. But I was wrong, because you turned out to be my favorite teacher. The teacher I know I can come to for anything and will always be there for me. The teacher who taught me how to be a better writer and overall human being and I am so thankful for that.
My overall favorite class memory was AP Lang’s got talent. It was hilarious to see what some of my classmates did and the really cool/good things they did. My favorite even though it wasn’t my class class period, was Alfonso and Kayla. Their talent was absolutely hilarious and I could not stop laughing. We laugh a lot in 204 and it will be something I will always miss.
This year flew by too quickly and I do not like it. I do not like how I will not attend Lang everyday like I did this year. I do not like how I am going to be a senior, that is just weird. I remember being a little baby freshman who didn’t know anything and now I am close to being a senior. Hopefully I will have AOP with you next year and if I don’t just know I will still always be in 204, my safe place in school. Thank you for an amazing year Bunj and I will miss it so much love ya.
ReplyDeleteOh Lang. AP Lang. I will not miss you(the AP part). I will not miss the dreaded nights of studying for that horrible AP test that I definitely failed. I will not miss the everlasting Abigail Adams and the recurrent lit term tests. And let's not forget extreme overload of work that will not be missed. However, I will forever miss the atmosphere of learning in 204. Room 204 is like a safe haven. Everyone is welcome and it is like another home. It’s where I’ve skipped my favorite class anatomy all the time. 204 is where I’ve poured out my feelings and opened up my mind. 204 is where I learned knowledge that will last for a life time and knowledge that will prepare me for the real world and college. The weekly blogs will forever be missed because even though everyone complained about doing them I love them and they are my favorite. Lang really opened me up and helped me reach my potential. AP Lang was not just an overwhelming amount of stress and work, it was a class that taught me so many new things and helped me prospere, and that, that is what I will miss. I remember walking into lang as a little junior my first day completely petrified. Bunje no offense but you scared the shit out of me. I love but I was pretty intimidated. You just gave me a view of what lang was going to be like and I was so worried you would hate me or something. Lets just say the nervousness I felt didn’t leave until like the middle of the year. The first week of school I remember you gave everyone a lit term and I didn’t hear what mine was and I was so scared to tell you and ask because I thought you would like hate me or something. But I was wrong, because you turned out to be my favorite teacher. The teacher I know I can come to for anything and will always be there for me. The teacher who taught me how to be a better writer and overall human being and I am so thankful for that.
My overall favorite class memory was AP Lang’s got talent. It was hilarious to see what some of my classmates did and the really cool/good things they did. My favorite even though it wasn’t my class class period, was Alfonso and Kayla. Their talent was absolutely hilarious and I could not stop laughing. We laugh a lot in 204 and it will be something I will always miss.
This year flew by too quickly and I do not like it. I do not like how I will not attend Lang everyday like I did this year. I do not like how I am going to be a senior, that is just weird. I remember being a little baby freshman who didn’t know anything and now I am close to being a senior. Hopefully I will have AOP with you next year and if I don’t just know I will still always be in 204, my safe place in school. Thank you for an amazing year Bunj and I will miss it so much love ya.
ReplyDeleteOh Lang. AP Lang. I will not miss you(the AP part). I will not miss the dreaded nights of studying for that horrible AP test that I definitely failed. I will not miss the everlasting Abigail Adams and the recurrent lit term tests. And let's not forget extreme overload of work that will not be missed. However, I will forever miss the atmosphere of learning in 204. Room 204 is like a safe haven. Everyone is welcome and it is like another home. It’s where I’ve skipped my favorite class anatomy all the time. 204 is where I’ve poured out my feelings and opened up my mind. 204 is where I learned knowledge that will last for a life time and knowledge that will prepare me for the real world and college. The weekly blogs will forever be missed because even though everyone complained about doing them I love them and they are my favorite. Lang really opened me up and helped me reach my potential. AP Lang was not just an overwhelming amount of stress and work, it was a class that taught me so many new things and helped me prospere, and that, that is what I will miss. I remember walking into lang as a little junior my first day completely petrified. Bunje no offense but you scared the shit out of me. I love but I was pretty intimidated. You just gave me a view of what lang was going to be like and I was so worried you would hate me or something. Lets just say the nervousness I felt didn’t leave until like the middle of the year. The first week of school I remember you gave everyone a lit term and I didn’t hear what mine was and I was so scared to tell you and ask because I thought you would like hate me or something. But I was wrong, because you turned out to be my favorite teacher. The teacher I know I can come to for anything and will always be there for me. The teacher who taught me how to be a better writer and overall human being and I am so thankful for that.
My overall favorite class memory was AP Lang’s got talent. It was hilarious to see what some of my classmates did and the really cool/good things they did. My favorite even though it wasn’t my class class period, was Alfonso and Kayla. Their talent was absolutely hilarious and I could not stop laughing. We laugh a lot in 204 and it will be something I will always miss.
This year flew by too quickly and I do not like it. I do not like how I will not attend Lang everyday like I did this year. I do not like how I am going to be a senior, that is just weird. I remember being a little baby freshman who didn’t know anything and now I am close to being a senior. Hopefully I will have AOP with you next year and if I don’t just know I will still always be in 204, my safe place in school. Thank you for an amazing year Bunj and I will miss it so much love ya.
Our last blog for the school year?? Wtf. This year went by so fast I blinked for a second and now it’s done. 204 has brought so many goods into my life, and I will forever be grateful for 204. Something that comes to mind as one of my favorite memories from class; is Bryan’s second marking period OP, I think? The one about tiles. I’m really not sure why, but I just really really enjoyed that OP. (Sorry Janet, don’t come after me lol). I think maybe because I truly got an insight to Bryan’s intelligence, and I just remember the whole class laughing. I don’t know, when I think back to that memory it feels like I was at home, surrounded by family, and we were all laughing having a good time. And after that moment, I truly understood that 204 is a family. I’m going to miss hearing everyone’s OP’s. Getting insight to everyone’s lives was one of my favorite parts. I got to know people that I never thought I would. I’ll miss our class parties and seeing all the sections of AP Lang combine to have a good time. I’ll miss our talent show (not mine of course, because I braided hair for a talent lol), but I loved seeing how talented my fellow classmates are. I’ll miss coming into 204 and sitting on the ripped couch. And I’ll miss my heart to hearts with you, bunj. And your warm, comforting hugs; and literally just seeing you everyday. I have learned, to not give a fuck about what other people have to say or think, and to focus on my own happiness. This year has truly been life changing, and I’ve grown and prospered, and if it weren’t for you Bunj- I don’t know I would’ve made it through this year. Thank you for all your comforting words, and hugs, and for being my second mom. You truly are a wonderful, amazing, beautiful person. I’m forever grateful to have been apart of 204, and I can’t wait to continue being a member for my senior year.
ReplyDeleteWith great love,
Ang. <33
Xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxxo
Entering 204, I had heard many different things about what this year would be like. "Stressful", but "welcoming". This year has changed me quite a bit. I've learned a lot about myself, thanks to you, Bunje. These blogs have allowed me to think and figure out myself.
ReplyDeleteI'm very terrible at presenting. It has never been my cup of tea, but this year was much different. I had a lot of trouble reading my first OP. It was emotional for me because I had never spoke to anyone about that before. It was pretty embarrassing that I cried, but I didn't feel judged for the first time in my life. I felt like everyone around me understood and was there for me. That's when I knew that this year was going to be a good one.
Back near Thanksgiving, my brother had pneumonia and it didn't look very good. It was emotionally draining for me so that week I forgot to print a paper for this class. I was waiting for the hit from Bunje and eventually I broke down crying because everything that was going on that week was too much. I expected her to assume that I was making excuses, but all she said was "You can tell me anything. If you don't think that you feel well enough to do something, just let me know." That's when I knew that I could trust her. Any other teacher I've ever had would've looked at that situation and said "You had 3 weeks to do it, though." I appreciated that she understood that sometimes you just don't feel well enough to do things.
I will never forget the time that we took the Atlantic County survey. A question came up and when I read answer choices A-D, none of them were true for me. I looked at Bunje and called her over. I showed her the question and explained my problem to her. She looked at it, looked at me and said "Put E. There's nothing to be ashamed of. Be proud of who you are." That touched me in a way that nothing else ever has. It felt nice knowing that at least someone not only acknowledged my existence, but supported it.
This summer there will be a big part of my life missing and I won't know what to do without it. But, I do know that I can always count on you guys. Dina, Lindsey, Elena, Jasmine, Enrique, Taylor, Abby, Manny, Sam, Andrea, Donna, Erynn, Dayna, and Heather. And all the other Lang/204 kids. And you can always count on me. Thank you for a great year. Thank you for making me feel special. Thank you for making me happy. Thank you for being you.
This year has been a very memorable one. I have learned so much about myself and my classmates and I am forever grateful to have spent this year with everyone in 204. Along with learning things about myself that I favor, I also learned things about myself that I would like to at least try to change in the future. In the beginning of the year we were asked to write down 3 goals that we had for ourselves this year whether it was school related or not and I can gladly say that I achieved 2 out of 3 of my goals. I have had many classes throughout my life so far and this class has been one of the few that has taught me stuff about life and that sometimes things won’t go your way but you can’t give up. I’ve also learned that it’s okay to be stuck, as long as you have a goal that you’re trying to reach. Lang has helped to shape me into the person I am and I am so thankful that I got to be a part of such an amazing and supportive family. 204 is forever a place that can be called home to so many kids. I never thought that it would be possible to know so much about my classmates in just a year. I know we’ve all grown up together but for some of my classmates, I’ve never really talked to them on a personal level and I’ve made friendships that I will have forever. I know that 204 is a place that you can come back to. My classmates are some of the most supportive people I know and I’m so happy to have spent my year with them. Writing occasional papers helped my fear of public speaking in a way. I mean I’m always going to be nervous to talk in front of crowds but it made me less nervous knowing I was talking to people who weren’t judging me or the things I wanted to talk about. I’m looking forward to see what next year brings me since I’m taking Art of Persuasion. I’m also excited to learn new things about myself as I go through my senior year of high school. Thank you Bunje for the many lessons you have taught us and thank you for letting us be ourselves because I think that’s the best gift anyone could give. Acceptance. You accept us for who we are and you love us unconditionally and it’s nice to know that no matter how hard life gets we still have 204 to fall back on. You have truly been a blessing to all of us this year and I can’t thank you enough for everything you have done.
ReplyDeleteNext year I am taking AoP, so I look forward to having you again. I can only hope that next year will be as memorable as this year was. For me, the Christmas party, Spring Fling, dizzy sack, the movie game, star day, and talent show were the most memorable things of this year. I think the "how too" will be another moment to add to the memory book once we present them. I think that the movie game is the thing that I remember the most out of all of my favorite things about the class. I remember it so well because my friends still make fun of me for my stupid answers and the long pause I had after saying "Honestly…" Today, Joe reminded me how bad I am at that game when he jokingly said "Well… There are many men in my life that I look up to." For some reason I always remember when my friends make me look like an idiot. The next thing that comes to mind is when Alfonso put a birdie in my hair and forgot to take it out at the end of class. So, I walked half way to my next period class before he said something and took it out. I was wondering why I got so many confused stares. Another funny thing that happened in your class was during one of the vocab quizzes. I think I was writing "poor" as one of the synonyms but instead I accidentally wrote "poop". I started cracking up in the middle of the test and Alfonso just stared over at me with a confused look. They also make fun of me for trying to be a popcorn kid (inside joke), when I obviously am one. These memories that I'll probably be made fun of for the rest of my life are ones that I'll have forever. I'm very grateful for taking Lang, because without it, I wouldn't have these memories today. Like I previously stated, I can't wait to take AoP, and I hope to make many more memories in your class next year.
ReplyDeleteYour Bestest Friend,
Timothy Anthony
As stressful as this year was, it was just as fun. There was so much that happened this year and I can’t believe it’s going to end in two weeks. All my senior friends are going to graduate and it’s going to be so sad when they do. Sometimes I forget they’re going to graduate and when they talk about it I don’t really get upset. I think I just haven’t faced the reality that they are graduating. The idea of not being able to see them next year wierds me out. I just haven’t accepted the fact that they’re leaving.
ReplyDelete204 was an important place to me and pretty much everyone. Through all the writings we did, the blogs, ops, and other personal writings, I got to discover myself more. It was this class that helped me make my future decision. Lang didn’t just help me with my reading and writing, it helped me express myself more which lead me to learn more about myself. At first when we started doing blogs and ops, it felt weird for me to open up and talk about personal issues or ideas. But as time went on it just became easier.
I’ll miss the memories we made in 204 like all the parties we had and the talent show. I’ll never forget the awesome dirt pudding we had at our first party, I’ll never forget the question “is your blue my blue?”, I’ll never forget the walkout we had during my class and when I got back there was no more buffalo dip, I’ll never forget the song Elena sung for the talent show, and I’ll never forget the family I made in 204.
Of course I’ll come back next year even though I didn’t take AOP. I’ll still come by because 204 is special. It’s where everyone comes to hang out and it’s like being with family. It’s sad to say goodbye but we’ll be back next year. Back to make new memories in 204.
This year has been one to remember-- to say the very least. I was just a sophomore this exact time last year wondering how my junior year to go. I was told it was going to be the most stressful year of all my high school years and boy they weren't kidding. I was told to take AP classes for the first time in my life and to challenge myself to the max junior year so senior year would be a breeze. Everyone said “you'll have so much fun with Bunj” “you guys will basically be a family” “Lang is soooo fun-- DON’T TAKE LIT.” So I did… I took AP Lang. And god darn it was I terrified. I was so worried I wouldn't be AP material and I would let myself and Bunje down. I was so tempted to switch out but I listened to “everyone” and I stuck it out and took on the challenge. Good thing I did that's all I have to say about that!
ReplyDeleteIn Lang we learn more than how to write an essay. You learn how to present yourself in a way that people want to listen to you, no matter how ridiculous your argument may be. You learn how to voice yourself in a sophisticated way. You learn life values, family values. It's much more than an Advanced Placement college level course with book loads of work, and I'm so thankful for that. I'm thankful I got so much more than that-- because let's be real, there was loads of work mixed in.
From reading our first OP’s scared as can be to express our own free thoughts afraid to get judged to reading our last as confident as can be while being assured that our family would never judge, a lot has happened. We've gone through love and hate and lose together and separately but no matter what the circumstances were we were always there for each other-- shoot we always will be. One thing I've learned that's completely unrelated to academics is that you must always stand for what you believe in and let it be known. I've learned to not back down and be shy when someone doesn't agree with me or thinks what I think or believe is stupid, I've learned to stand up for myself. This is so so valuable to me because I've always been one to back down and get back in my shell as soon as someone wasn't on my side. I used to let people take full advantage of me, but now since I've been in 204 for about 170 days, I've learned to come out of my shell and it's honestly helped me so much throughout the year.
I don't want to make this farewell blog to “goodbyey” because I know we'll stay close and see each other next year, but it just won't be the day ya know. So what I'm saying goodbye to isn’t the Lang fam, it's the Lang fam that has met in 204 second period all of junior year AP Lang. I hope that we all continue to mature and prosper and better ourselves-- even though I think we're all pretty perfect already. I hope we always remember our 204 Lang fam Omar our 10 year reunion like we met for class the day before with our binoculars and footsie pj’s and we can take another group Lang family photo. And let's make our reunions every 10 years, and in between we'll have little coffee and lunch dates, I think that sounds swell.
I can't thank everyone enough for being so welcoming and comforting and putting a smile on my face through the really, really tough times I went through this year that no one really knew about, and instead of moping around all day, in second period my mood would be enlightened and i'd have a good rest of the day. You guys will always be my family, never forget that. I love you all beyond our stars that shine so bright above our heads times infinity. Cheers to a good junior year… we made it and that deserves more than just a pat on the back. I'm glad I got through it with all of you <33333
I’ve never been good at goodbyes, but I guess I’ll try for this blog. First off, I do not believe in goodbyes or endings which I guess is what makes me terrible at goodbyes. All this is, is an interval, and soon we will see each other again, and if we don’t memories will still remain. With my life as an AP Lang student coming to an end I have to be happy that I have the memories, the joy and the hardships of this year and I am proud to say that in this year I have developed more as a person than any other year of my existence which is mostly due to my time spent in AP Lang. People are only gone once memories of them are forgotten and I simply do not want to forget any of you, from OP’s to Blogs, the memories that have been created have seriously affected my thoughts and views on my existence and the world as a whole. I can honestly say I will miss having my calves made fun of but I still have all the Valentine’s Day cards so they can hold me over until next year. I’m really running out of things to say, that’s something that normally doesn’t happen but I can honestly say I consider all of you as my friends. I want to thank you guys for everything that you’ve done for me this year, although some of you might not have even said a word to me. Silence is sometimes the greatest form of communication, or at least it is for me. I don’t know what I should end this with so I guess I’ll go on a little rant.
ReplyDeleteAll of you matter, whether or not you believe it, you do. Out of darkness comes beauty because without the night we would never know the beauty of the day. In the hardships that we will face in the near future, we will conquer them. I am already excited for our twenty-year reunion because I can't wait to hear of all the accomplishments you guys have done after high school, and when the world becomes ours I can’t wait to see how we change it.
Your most bestest friend,
Christian Dennis (a.k.a. No Calves)
Goodbyes aren't really my thing, either. I'll usually give a "see you later" more than anything else, but nonetheless, this is a "see you later". I've grown up with most of
ReplyDeleteyou, so I have no doubt no that I'll see a good portion of you next year since we've been in the same classes since the fifth grade. However, for those of you that I won't see again until graduation, and then never again after we split for college, it's still "see you later". My favorite memory from Lang is the beginning of the year when we made our stars and lit terms posters. Even though we didn't really know 204 yet, you allowed us to make it our own and decorate it as if it were our home. Now, there's cutie pictures of all of us, chilling next to insightful words that will stay with us forever.
Lang was a wild experience for me. At points, I loved assignments, especially the "This I Believe" and all OPs. I liked when you assigned readings that are relevant and weren't written buy George Washington's father. At other times, I was damn near close to throwing my lit terms and SAT vocab flash cards out the window with my pre calc text book. But one thing is for certain: Advanced Placement English Language and Composition was more than just another AP class to put on my schedule, it was a class about learning, growing and living, and I couldn't be more thankful for the experience.
As for you, Cassie Bunje, I plan to grace you with my presence until you tell me you're tired of my face so no, not goodbye. I'll see you later. (I'll probably have AoP twice because Mrs. Klein but I don't mind)
Xoxo,
Breyoncé
I know everyone’s blog post is either really sappy or like peace out but think about it, we made it. Last year in Clark’s I was scared to even step foot into AP Lang or let alone 204 because all of the rumors we would hear and the hours of sleep lost and spent on homework. I think, well I know, we did AP Lang the right way. I was never overly stressed out to the point I was up until 3 am writing an essay and that's a first. I enjoyed improving my writing and techniques more than I ever have because I could see myself improving, without cheating. I was head over heals in love with school growing up and then I learned how to procrastinate. Procrastination and being overwhelmed with random school work has led me to my 13 A1s. Theres many more but these people get me through everything with smile on my face. America’s Next Top Group Chat has made everything about this year memorable. We are best friends. We tell each other when we're mad about a girl in school, upset about our significant others, help each other with schoolwork as a collaborative team, and most important out of everything I always get a response no matter what. It's my family away from my family.
ReplyDeleteSo what I’m saying is, find a group of friends that will push and strive you the right way. Without these people, junior year would of been spent in my bed crying my eyes out. Find a group of friends that won’t mind sending you some answers to help you and not look at school as a competition. I am so blessed with these crazy people. I can walk into 204 at any time and know that one of them is in there. They’re my comfort zone and when I’m feeling a little stressed they always know what to say and how to help me. I could go on for days and days about how important they are to me. So, I will not be saying goodbye to the good people of 204. My best friends will always be in my phone. To everyone else, YOU ALL ARE SO COOL AND I WOULDN'T TRADE HAVING CLASS WITH ANYONE. Especially period 2, fam tight. I will miss our prayers and if we have class next year, I know will still continue the tradition.
To everyone: please find classmates that will be your family. Because I wouldn’t want any other people dragging me out of a party, crying my eyes out, watching me blaahhhhhh all over and still record me, laughing. My best moments are with the ones I spend every day with in 204. Whether we're studying, or having a TVAN takeover, my heart is filled with smiles. @ANTGC you guys are the bomb. I love you all<3 If drakes up I’m up. And to Bunje, you know you have a special place in all of our hearts and I hope you continue to shine your intelligence on the younger children of Oakcrest High School. This is not a goodbye, just a wave for the summer :)
I’m in a pool of emotions right now. For the past week, I’ve been labeling my lang docs with the word, “last”, and in all honesty, I hate it. This year has been, by far, my favorite year of high school. Props to ap lang and the most wonderful teacher. Continuing, I’ve never been good with goodbyes because I can’t do them. I get anxiety, stress, and a ton of lugubrious emotions *wink wink*.
ReplyDeleteI’m at a loss of words. I can’t describe how much I will miss lang. Now, in the beginning of the year, I would have never thought I would be saying those words, but in this moment, those are the only words my mind is thinking about. It’s hard to say farewell to something or someone when you don’t want it to end. I know everyone has to move on, but I am certainly not ready to move on. 180 days are not enough days of ap lang. I need the whole 365. Just for lang- not the other classes.
I’ve made so many memories in 204 that it’s hard to pinpoint one. So, I’m just going to name a couple. 1. Trying to make those damn stars. I swear, in my head I was like how am I going to make it through the year when I can’t even trace a star and cut it out. 2. Getting calendars every month. I loved this. It made me so much more organized and it made the months go by faster. But now, I wish they hadn’t. 3. Death Month. 4. The famous AP Lang talent show that made it all the way to Obama. I had no idea what I was going to do for this. I kept going back and forth from idea to idea and then I remembered I did karate for 7+ years. 5. Last OP. When I was writing that, I was starting to tear up. I didn’t think I was going to be able to go up there and read it because I was so gloomy. All I remember was reading the opening paragraph and the last paragraph, looking up and seeing Bunje with her head in her hands because I got her in her feels, and her bear hug afterwards lol. I didn’t mind it though.
If I had to pass on my wisdom from this class, it would be: don’t wish the school year would end soon. I know from experience that you will regret saying that. You’ll be writing your last docs for lang and think, “where has the time gone”? That is me right now. It’s crazy how fast this year went by. I wish I could start it all again and walk into 204 and sit in my seat patiently waiting for what the year will hold. I’ll miss this class so much. More than words will ever describe. I love you, bunj and my lang family.
Always,
Lex
xoxoxo
This isn’t even a goodbye. This is forreal just a “see ya in 3 months” because I will just be back in 204 as of August 30th 2016. And for all of the people who I won’t see in 204, I’m sure I’ll see you somewhere in the hallways. (You might not see me but I’ll come up and bite your elbow or something and you’ll deff see me then) But really like what in the world. This is the last blog. What. I thought it was halloween last week. I seriously remember dressing in my bathrobe, telling everyone I was a “rubber duck”, and telling haley to go to southend with me in AC at 4am as if it was yesterday. In all honesty though, this has probs been the worst year of my life. Not because of school but just because it’s been pretty rough over all. But what I always made me happier was knowing that I could go to 204 everyday and see everyone's cutie smiling faces and how great everyone managed to look every morning while I would stumble in wearing basically the same outfit from the day before, I’m actually going to miss wearing my leggings and hoodies for the next couple months and looking homeless but it’ll make a comeback once oak stops feeling like the amazon rainforest.
ReplyDeleteI’m going to miss lots of things though. I’ll miss teagan making up new words and haley’s crazy accent (even though I’ll still be getting plenty of that from ANTGC this summer). I’m gonna miss coming in and playing the recorder with my nose with Jess. I’m deff gonna miss doing the talent show and listening to Ryan rap and kennedy show us what her mouf do. I’m gonna miss larry always asking me to borrow a pen. I’m gonna miss turning around and staring at Nia and her replying with “Ew stop, turn around” even though I know she just loves it. I’m gonna miss telling zach how fly he looks in the shirt I bought him. I’m gonna miss telling taylor to go back to chem class. I’m gonna miss hearing all the laughs and seeing all the smiles everyday from 8:23am to 9:08am. There's lots to miss but there's also things I am so happy I’m leaving behind.
I’m happy I’m leaving behind those AP multiple choice questions, those essays that I could never write above a 7th grade level, those 70’s I got on vocab, having to talk about all of the ridiculous changes that are happening to the nest, and most of all how sweaty and smelly it was in the 200 wing. But then again, I can’t wait to be doing all of this again in a few short months.
So that's all I’ve got, I hope you’ve all enjoyed all the stories I’ve told during the year, my prayer circles, and listening in on my phone calls from my doctor. It was one crazy year, and I’m so happy I got to spend it with you, bunj. You’ve truly made my year special and I can’t wait to see ya next year. And for the rest of you, this summer is about to be lit af so I better see you all at one point.
I forgot to sign myself out s0O0O0O0O000OOO0oo000O....
DeleteLove always,
Watermelon, tit, tee, munchkin, peanut, altyboo, and whatever other nicknames I have formed over the year, xoxo
& srry tegs I spelled your name wrong
DeleteFinally, Junior year is almost over. This year flew by so fast, it felt like I did my first blog post a couple weeks ago. I’m not going to lie, I’m genuinely glad I decided to take this Lang class. Before the year started I had so many doubts. One of them being that I wouldn’t make to the end of the year, but here I am. I made through it AP Lang. I’ve learned so much in this class, and not even about the English language, about myself. These blog posts made me reevaluate my life several times, but I’m glad it made me think. It sounds funny but it’s like I got to know myself even better. However, inside the classroom I learned about the world and the people around me, and knowledge like that doesn’t come often. I loved our intellectual conversations about problems in the world. It made me feel like I was actually learning for my well-being.
ReplyDeleteOut of all our days in Lang, my favorite was Valentine’s Day. Everybody just seemed to be in a good mood. I didn’t get any bad vibes throughout the day because everybody was just happy. Plus, I got to see everyone’s creative mailboxes. But, the best part was when everybody read their letters. Everyone was so nice to each other and we all felt loved. Everyone took the time write a special letter to a classmate that relates to their personality. It made me feel special because people actually knew who I was and my personality. I believe that day brought our class even closer.
Ms. Bunje, the whole entire year you weren’t afraid to speak your mind, and I admire that. It’s something I could never do because I was always afraid to speak up. That’s the biggest lesson I learned in this class: my voice matters. I will try to work on it and overcome that fear of being unaccepted.
To the all the other Langers and the class of 2017, we did it. Junior fucking year man. It kicked me in the ass but I kept fighting back, and I hope you guys can say the same or even better. I honestly hope all of you accomplished your goals this year and I wish all of you the best for your senior year. Class of 2017. It’s LIT. Just know we’re running shit next year. I better see all of you walk in your cap and gown in June 2017. We’re all going to go our separate ways but I really hope all of you do well in the future. Honest to God. I would love to see everyone pursuing their passion and living the life they wanted. Next year is going to be a big year, I hope everyone succeeds.
Yours truly,
Zach Gonzales
I don’t really know what I am. I don’t really know if I am middle or a beginning or an ending person. I guess I like all of them; I like the feeling of new beginnings and to see how things are working out and then to see it all come together to an end. This school year has had a lot of ups and downs and I am thankful for all of them. I have learned so much from these experiences. As this year comes to and end and its getting closer and closer to graduation I am not sad. I cannot wait to leave this place and be able to do things on my own and be able to be late to class because I mentally could not get up in the morning. Since I am a senior this has to be a farewell letter and as much as I wish this was a very dreaded farewell letter it is not, goodbye.
ReplyDeleteI know that sounds kind of rude and harsh it but here is my reasoning. I have dealt with some bs for four years and I am ready to let all of it go. I am ready to be able to leave. I have no regrets from high school and I do not hope to come back one day. I actually would love to stay as far away from this place as possible. Although high school has been the best four years of my life this school has nothing to do with it, it is all the people and my experiences outside of high school that made the past four years unforgettable. I am not trying to bash on this school, but I kind of am.
I have learned so many life lessons through out high school but none of them from strict teachers or classrooms settings where tests are give every other day. I learned them on my own living day by day and going through life.
Even though I am ready to let go of all the bs what ill always remember is the genuine faces that sat with me through AP Lang, all of you are wonderful people that have helped me get through the toughest times. Hearing all of you read your OPS will always be my favorite memory.
So again, this is a farewell letter from me. I am happy that ill graduate and sad that you guys have the next year here. Make the most of it though, go out and have fun, get drunk and laugh. Make memories you’ll always remember because this school will not give you that.
Love, Me
I’m terrible at goodbyes too. I never know when it’s the right time to say goodbye, or even when to leave the room. I’m so awkward at goodbyes.
ReplyDeleteI remember the first time I walked into 204. It was my first day as a sophomore, and I was miserable. A lot of my friends had different schedules than me, and for the first couple of days, I was by myself. I was the only sophomore in my AP Spanish class and Debate and Discussion. I also ate lunch by myself. It was pretty obvious too, I was alone at a whole table. Luckily, I found a group a friends to eat with. Anyways, I was a nervous wreck walking into 204 because it was another class that I didn’t have any friends in. But 204 was very warm and inviting. There was a guy named Alfredo who was really friendly to me and made me feel like I belonged in the class.
Although I was never truly comfortable in 204 until Junior year, I knew this was a very special class because everybody would walk in. And they all walked in because of Bunje. To be honest, I was really intimidated by the D&D class, but I stayed because of Bunje as well. And I learned so much last year that I knew it’d be the same this year.
This year was a really great year for me. I’ve found out a lot about who I am as a person mainly due to all of these blog posts. This is the best class I’ve ever taken because it has taught and given me so much more than just “AP Lang”. This class is a family, and we go through everything together. I’m going to miss all of the fun parties that we have together we everybody gets a little crazy. I’m going to miss listening to everybody’s OPs. I’m going to miss everyone, but not really because I know we are all going to come back here next year. This is NOT a goodbye, it’s a see you later :)
I've always hated goodbyes, in fact, I rarely say goodbye its always something like, “see you tomorrow” or “talk to you later”. Goodbyes are so finial and depressing even little ones like saying goodbye to the lang class for the summer. I just never liked the feeling of ending something. I think every time I walked into 204 was a good time… there were many times where my 6th period got to witness me flipping the hell out interrupting class with my drama…so Im sorry for that but at least you got a kick out of my wild ass. Im sure next year Ill see a lot of you because the GC lives on. Its been a rough year for me…a really rough one. But this class has helped me get through it…even though I said fuck Oakcrest to the point where I went on homebound I love you all dearly. Im going to miss the 204 lounge this summer but I will return next September ready to raise hell once again. Its been a long year and Im thrilled summer is here (for me anyway since oak forgot about me) but I am going to miss everyone and our deep conversations about life, sharing our opinions. I'm glad Elena will be here still next year so I can continue to cry over her voice. Im sure there will be more study session days spent on T Vans piano listening to Alf sing my favorite song, “see you again”, and me also crying about that. Ill see you all next year most likely flipping out or in tears or saying something sarcastic, but at least you know I wont switch up on you. Love you all have a safe and wild summer.
ReplyDeleteI hate endings, but this one feels especially weird because I’ve never known Oakcrest without AP Lang. 204 has more or less defined Oakcrest for me, because it was the first place I felt unafraid to be myself. Moving to a new high school is scary, but lang made it much less scarier. Everyone in my class was welcoming and I was very relieved to know that an AP teacher actually liked me. I remember the second day of class, when everyone brought in an article they found interesting. My article, of course, was about feminism. Bunj went around the room, calling on people to tell the class about their articles, and I was praying that she wouldn’t pick me (because I used to hate speaking in front of people) when, of course, she picked me. My heart started to palpitate and I became so nervous because I thought everyone would label me as a “feminazi” or “angry feminist”, but to my surprise, Bunj and the rest of the class actually liked my article. From that point on, I knew it’d be a lit year.
ReplyDeleteLang and Bunj have honestly impacted my life in so many ways, I don’t even know how to put it into words. First of all, I learned that there’s a lot more to writing than thesis statements and 5 paragraph essays. It’s about having a voice and expressing yourself through words on a piece of paper. There’s a really satisfying feeling about stringing exactly the right words together into a sentence to express your thoughts, and I didn’t become aware of this feeling until this year. Never before could I precisely explain my viewpoints and feelings, because never before did I think to write them down instead of struggling to speak them. I would’ve never discovered this new outlet were it not for Bunj and her focus on our individuality, rather than our grades. We wrote blogs about what we thought, read articles about what we found interesting, and were taught important lessons that would be valuable to us, not College Board. I learned so much about myself in these past few months of lang than I have in all of my past classes combined.
Lang has given me many things, but I think the most important thing I’ve received is confidence. One day in September, I went to Bunje’s SAT prep after school, and I remember having an actual conversation with her for the first time. We were talking about writing, and I was completely surprised (and maybe a lil gassed) when she told me that I should do it for a living. At first I thought she was kidding because I couldn’t comprehend the possibility that I might actually be good at something. But once I figured out that she was serious, I was really touched. No one had ever given me such a sincere and meaningful compliment before, nevermind a compliment about being talented or skilled in any way. Her words really inspired me and gave me a new sense of confidence that I had never known before.
She continued to support and inspire me throughout the year, especially as a mock trial coach. Bunj believed in my lawyering abilities when I didn’t at all, and she somehow made me unafraid to speak in front of a large audience without notes. The fact that we made it to round 4 in the competition, the furthest Oak mock trial has ever made it, only made me feel even more empowered and confident because I felt like I helped contribute to an amazing team full of some of the brightest kids I’ve ever met; I’m more than hype for next year.
So yes, I’ll miss lang, but I’ll miss Bunj and the people in my class even more (y’all are all gems ily). Bunj, thank you for an amazing year filled with lessons that I’ll carry with me throughout the rest of my life, and thank you for teaching me to like me for me. I’m so glad I’ll see you next year in AoP, but I’m already dreading that goodbye, which will be a million times harder.
Oh gosh…. The final blog as an AP Lang kid. Who am I kidding, I'll always been a be an AP Lang kid. (although AP Lang will not be on the schedule next year but anywho, on with the blog.)
ReplyDeleteThese past 100 or so days have been the best 100 or so days of my high school, no, my entire educational school career. I'm not saying it's best because everyone else says the best; I'm saying this because I truly mean it from the bottom of my heart. Stepping into 204 for the first time on the first day school had me shaking like crazy. I was scared to disappoint and scared I couldn't finish the course. I always heard of the stress, the all nighters, and yet all the fun times in room 204. I had an idea of all the workload that was on my way but I had no idea of all the new connections I would make. Not gonna lie I was scared but that Bunje wasn't going to like me because I'm always that one kid in class that's quiet and does my work, but not it wasn't AP quality. I always had shitty teachers who were only there for a paycheck. 2015-2016 school year was the first time I had teachers who CARED about their students. Our Lang family is probably one of my favorites. We have all grown as writers, as students, and as people. I cannot pick a favorite memory because I have so many but currently I can't think of one lol oops. The first thing that comes to mind is laughing at Manny’s first OP: “Is your blue my blue?” I didn't tell many this but I too have wondered that same question, luckily manny beat me to it. I had no idea how to interpret my thoughts into actual words but Manny somehow did, kudos to you kid. I also enjoyed the time Altea read her OP about her many animals. And let's not forget that talent show!! Gosh we are such a bunch of goofballs. I love you guys.
One thing I will never ever forget about this class, about what Bunje has taught us all throughout at the year, is that we will always have a home. We will have a home any time we are together or in room 204. During the time of a great loss we all come together and support even though we weren't close with everyone in our 204/Lang family. Each one of us has some shoulders to cry on even though we don't think we do. Each one of us has a couch to sleep on, or snuggle with a random pink blanket, when whatever we want to skip class. Each one of us has a "second mother". I will never forget the love and comfort that radiates everywhere.
I will never forget period 2.
Thank you for being one heck of a teacher Bunj.
Love,
Jasmine
Goodbye blog :( I mean, no more wednesday night writing, good. But I’m not going to lie this is sad, no more blogs. Blogs equal Lang. No more Lang. That’s syllogism I think. Or syllepsis. I’m not sure. At least I know it’s a lit term. But back on topic, I don’t really have any major moments of Lang that need a lot of explanation, so I’ll list my favorite moments. This is in no specific order, just whatever comes to mind.
ReplyDeleteMy second day of Lang. Ms Bunje asks me if I had Clark last year? I said no, told her I had Pohlig, and she responded with “Fuck.” That moment on I knew it would be fun and I would love Bunje.
My first OP, so gassed. What if my Blue is not your Blue? It was and is a monumental, sensational work of art that triggered the minds of others. When I read it, and confused people, and made them laugh, I was gassed. It was a great day. Also was the beginning of my reputation for having good OPs.
.Taking dubs in twister. Spring Fling was lit. The best part was playing twister and not taking any Ls. @Haley
All the parties. 204 has gotta have the most lit parties in Oakcrest History. From Ms. Bunje’s buffalo chicken dip to my empanadas or Enrique’s chips. The food was great. And so was spending anywhere from 2-5 periods in the classroom partying.
Skipping Class. Fuck a Spanish. Fuck an EPA. Unfortunately for me, I was stuck with most boring EPA job there is, the main office. When Ms. C first told me that I was going to the main office, I was excited. I was thinking I’d be delivering passes, delivering lunch boxes and envelopes or whatever a parent would bring in for a child. I thought I was going to be helping out at the front desk at all times, but no, I was mistaken. What it really is sitting at a desk bored out of your mind for 45 minutes. Occasionally we get to file medical notes or fold letters and place them in an envelope. Oooohhh and sometimes we’d help someone at the desk more than 3 times a period. So when I could just chill in Bunjes and be a little late, or sit in on 2nd period and skip EPA all together, it was great. Also, Ms. Kemenosh is a nice lady and I like her but her class is just so boring, chilling in Bunje’s is a whole lot better.
Visits to second period. Sometimes during EPA, I actually was allowed to leave the office for whatever reason. And being that second period is my favorite Lang class (sorry my class and 7th) I just check in with them, sometimes just a hey, sometimes I make sure Larry isn’t causing trouble, and occasionally I gotta make sure Ms. Bunje doesn’t need medical attention. A little break from my epa work is always good..
Yeah, there were definitely a lot more fun things and times in Lang than 7, but these are the ones that stick out, and I could explain without writing a whole OP, eyeball emoji. Goodbye Lang, I’ll always love and miss you.
This school year has been the most stressful year ever. I never expected myself to ever be stressed and I even told myself that I would not let it happen to me. But, unfortunately, that huge wrecking ball (stress) hit me insanely hard a few times over the course of the year. To be honest, most of my stress came from AP Lang and I never liked it in the moments. But don't get me wrong, I genuinely appreciate such negative experiences that lang had brought me (as well as joyful ones of course). Sometimes I even hated you bunje, but you were never to blame and, believe me, I even knew that in the moments of saying "ugghhh bunje whyyy?!" You were never to blame. You simply did your job and had such loving intentions from it, and trust me, I knew that every step of the way, even during the periods of turmoil. And you know what? That was a good thing. I like how bothersome your class became because I like the fact I got to experience that and adapt to the crappiness and grow as a person.
ReplyDeleteBut, actually, did you know that, especially in the beginning of the year, I thought of you as my second mother? (Well not as much later in the year 'cause the intensity and stress kept building up till the AP exam). But really I did. And I just remembered that while writing that last paragraph. I thought of you as my second mother beca use, firstly, you put yourself out there for us as one so I took the initiative and accepted that. Secondly, you are such an intelligent individual, and may I add, a mother figure. My actual mom is not that. She is fine as a mother, but she isn't intelligent... she's just simply kind, which is also good. When you first started talking about life crap I was like hell yes because I loved it how you would just talk to us and try to teach us and help us with general things. I remember that every goddamn time that you were going deep with your lectures I was not able to take my eyes off you 'cause I was so concentrated on what you were saying and I knew if I looked away I would fall of the train of YOUR thought. And I say that because I understood every SINGLE thing you were talking about and I liked that. I liked how I already knew some things you were talking about and loved how you were actually proving some of my ideas right while you were speaking (especially the things about us, teenagers, that I have discovered and you spoke of). This is also why I decided to take you AoP class next year. The moment I found out you taught that class (knowing that you were such an intelligent person and that you would go deeper with these topics in AoP) and the moment I realized I needed an art class to graduate, I was like... "Yes."
Also, I'll just throw out a few things I didn't like. For one, your death stares. That made me be scared shitless and made me feel crappy about myself 'cause I already knew I messed up and then you would give me that look and thought you hated me. But trust me, I know that there were several cases when I turned something in late (or didn't put the right title on that "This I believe" essay). ;-( I know I messed up and deserved it, but sometimes I'd think, "does she have to make me feel crappy about myself?" *tear* But it's fine 'cause, again, I know it was my fault and I know I deserved it and I'm fine with it. Actually, I would get over those mini breakdowns in like a half of a school day. I said "a few things," but that was pretty much my only problem this school year. Then again, not much of a problem...
DeleteNow I want to finish off by saying... FML 'cause I'm taking 5 or 6 AP classes next year, depending on how my schedule goes, plus AoP and I'm just praying to God we don't have to write as much in that class of yours as much as in AP Lang. Hey, don't get me wrong, the topics you gave us to write about were enjoyable (oh and I'm not talking about the blogs not those Abigail Adams essay and the like). The blog posts were great (again especially in the beginning of the year 'cause later stress built up and blah, blah, blah) and I could write quite a lot about most of them. I also felt I was a better writer with the blogs than with the essays you gave us in class and noticed myself becoming a better write weekly because of the blogs (of course because of your in class teachings and lectures as well).
So yeah... sa-yo-nara until next year, I guess.
FYI, I just woke up 2 hours ago and that's why I wrote this blog so late... once again, I guess. But now you know why so don't call me lazy!
DeleteMan, time flies when you are having fun. In just a few days, we leave school for three months and soon become Seniors. The kings and queens of high school. The oldest of the pack. Anyway back to the final blog post. I am going to miss AP Lang. Like my classes just bore me and teaches me unnecessity information except for your class. When I first step in your class mid September, I felt that you were like any other English teacher and would probably teach regular English, but in AP style. I was wrong. Bunje, you aren’t like any other English teacher, actually you aren’t like any other teacher I come across in my life. You actually care and support your students in and out of school. You teach AP Lang in a way that is easy to understand and provide a new way to look at the text. You help students see a better way of the English text while making it interesting. That is what I am going to miss in my senior year.
ReplyDeleteA couple of my favorite moments in AP Lang has to be Bryan’s OPs to the movie title game to your lessons. From The Case for Reparations to the lobster article, it interest me on how our world works and it shows me that our country has more problems than Jay Z (it’s a reference to his song, 99 problems.).Thanks to you, I would never learn about the Toulmin method and how it is used to face any argument. In the end, I am really going to miss AP Lang and you too, Bunje. I hope that I can get you as my teacher again for AOP. Have a great summer and have fun dealing with my cousin, Preston.
Your friend,
Jus
P.S (JP is a better nickname imo)
Nine months. Nine months ago we walked into 204 for our first Lang class and we never stopped walking back in. I’m sure a lot of us had our moments of desperation when Abigail Adams was getting to be too much, but we all love this class. I can’t believe how much one class could impact a group of kids.
ReplyDeleteIf I can go back to the nine months thing for just a sec, junior year was a long pregnancy. We learned new techniques and wrote until our hands ached and spoke in front of large groups of people numerous times. Now we are going to emerge as….. SENIORS. We will be the class of seniors who are confident in themselves and in their abilities. We have grown a lot from the sophomores who signed up for this class. We can all thank our mother hen Bunje for prodding us along to personal and intellectual growth, even when we wanted nothing more but to stay still.
I’m happy I took this class. It was so great to write for me and not for an assignment. When I am old and withered I may not be able to sing or dance, but I will still be able to write. It’s the form of expression that is never out of style. It feels like a lifetime since I enjoyed writing before this class. Thank you for bringing this gift back into my life.
Lang was rough, but Bunje English was the best. The OPs, the stars, the quotes, the talents, the blog: that’s what got me through this arduous class. The Lang essays were certainly kicking my ass until maybe two weeks before the exam, but it was the moments of our 204 family when we were just ourselves that pushed me through.
From what I absorbed from OPs and This I Believe’s, showing vulnerability gives a person more strength. I’ve known most of you for years, but I respect and appreciate you all so much more after you opened about yourselves. You guys are a kickass bunch and the world will be in good hands when you leave Oakcrest to bring about good onto this planet.
I’m having a tough time comprehending the year is basically over, so sorry this doesn’t flow very much. Junior year was a big year for me and I’m sad to see it end so soon. I would even say I’d take the AP exams again for some more time. But Dr. Seuss said “Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.” so I will keep all the good memories with me and put the rest behind me.
I always say I come to school for drama and choir, but that’s not true anymore. Lang breathed some life back into me and these required classes don’t seem so irrelevant anymore. I don’t have to learn just for tests. I can learn for me again.
Let me just end this by saying thank you all for making Lang 15-16 such a cool place to be.
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
Melissa
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ReplyDeleteHonestly, I'm sick of blogs, I'm sick of school, sick of work but I could never be sick of AP Lang.
ReplyDelete1st period is always a drag, whether it was Mrs. M or Mr. Uzzardi, my wandering mind cannot, to the best of its ability, remain grounded in that dreadful classroom environment. "A,E, I, O, U." says Mr. Uzzardi every single fucking day. Thanks, I didn't already know the complicated concept of vowels. Please elaborate.
2nd Period AP Biology, as interested as I am on the matter, lacks the sort of luster that I dream of in a scientific classroom. Seniors twiddle with their fingers on a phone, listen to music, and play "Color Switch." (An app that allows the user to strategically tap the ball through colors... and waste their time.) I wish I could say that that was a class I thoroughly enjoyed. I wish I could say that I learned everything I wanted to learn from that class. My teacher was lucky enough that I cared about the subject enough to rarely skip her class.
3rd Period is Study hall.
4th Period is gym, and as athletic and energetic as I may seem to most people, I sure love to walk around the track instead of playing basketball or softball.
Oh the bane of my existence: 5th Period Calculus AB. I like Mrs. Tantum. She's patient, kind, and gives off an easy-going but motherly vibe that helps most of her students pay attention to her. She was a great teacher, probably one of the best I've had... but the computational and formulaic aspects of Calculus NEVER sunk in the pink sponge inside my head. Typical calculus anecdote:
"Me: Mrs. Tantum, why did we do that?
Tantum: It's a rule.
Me: So just because someone made up a rule, I HAVE to
to do it that way.
Tantum: Yes
Me: That's a stupid rule..."
6th Period APUSH. Best time to take a nap. Funny teacher, good guy, horrible subject.
8th Period MAcroeconomics. A very interesting class, very weirdly entertaining teach. God I love Sopuch so much.
7th Period AP Lang. I skip a lot of classes. A LOT. But I don;t think I've ever skipped Lang. Lang can tedious and "kill-myself" worthy, but it never ceases to reel me back in. I don't know if it's because of the teacher, the students, or the comfortable yet rigorous atmosphere that keeps me coming back lack bees to honey or like a sexually frustrated man and prostitutes. (Same thing.) AP Lang is a beautiful class. A place where students can roam free and graze, nibble on knowledge. Students have done so much, given so much to that class, that I don't know if I could ever find a home away from home (that's still in school) like it. As everything great about Oakcrest disintigrates, with loving students trying to keep it together, AP Lang is a constant, stable reminder of how great Oakcrest is. If the main office is the mind, the cafeteria is the stomache, and Keenan's office is the ass. Then 204 must be the heart of Oakcrest.
I will truly miss this class and the times we shared. They will forever hold a place in my life and... godammit, I told myself I wouldn;t cry while I was writing this.
I didn't.
Love ya Bunje. Don't let any asshole ruin what you love to do and why you do it. Let them be the butt of all of your jokes. Pun intended. See you next year possibly.
Peace. Love. Love.
Alfonso Gabriel T. Roque
Dear Period 6,
ReplyDeleteI have learned more things than I bargained for this year. Who I am, who I aspire to be, how I feel about writing, and how it makes me feel to write. Honestly, it brings me to tears to think that I may never take a class where I can write freely and not feel as if I am under a constant critique. Isn’t the best writing in the world birthed from unique form, creativity, and a special difference from all the other writing? How can any student create those characteristics in writing with a teacher force feeding his students a format to follow? Although all the Bunje parties and chats were relaxing and fun I truly believe that all the work is what molded me, for the better that is. Teachers can’t make you a better writer or a better organizer they only provide the tools. It’s up to you how you use them to fix your problems. A big thanks to you, Ms. Bunje, for giving me every tool in the shed to be accomplished in your class and even so in my life. I met deeper parts of myself I didn’t know I had every late night at the computer typing up that precis. I have more inside jokes with myself than most people, I’m sure of it. I, also, learned my value. I am so much more valuable than what I may think sometimes but I’ve learned this year that I will never settle for less than the best.
As a class we’ve learned to respect each other. We’ve learned to understand our differences and smile to your neighbor because a smile does WONDERS on a rainy day. We know that if we need a good story that you should always go to Jasmine, if you need a laugh go to Taylor, if you need a smile talk to Lindsey, and if you just need to talk go to Bunje. I’m not real close with my classmates but I feel like I love them like my siblings. I see their pain and I feel pain too. I see their happiness and I’m happy too. I don’t think I could/would ever come out of class with the same conclusion. We all are different and will travel on different paths and, frankly, may not talk to each other after high school. But we all are set out to find happiness. Maybe everyone’s blue is different, but after all it’s just the color blue. I love you all and thank you for, unknowingly, having such a big impact on my life.
With love,
Elena
ReplyDeleteAh...Lang. You know? It wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be. It feels like just yesterday my ex-Langer friend was showing me her old calendars and preparing me for what to expect. It feels like just yesterday I was scared out of my wits after hearing Bunje’s “no cheating” speech. But it also feels like so long ago that we were studying our little butts off for our AP Lang Exam in May. This class experience has been a heck-of-a-ride, but one that I wouldn’t trade for the world.
I often find myself saying that Lang really is everywhere. I use SAT Vocab words on the daily and I can now easily recognize most literary devices. Writing blogs every week has tremendously improved my writing and has made me more confident in my future potential. As a young girl, I always wrote in journals to express my emotions. My Lang experience has only enhanced my abilities to record and reflect upon my life. From Declamations to OP’s to How-To’s to This I Believe’s...public speaking has helped me grow as a person and has granted me the courage to say the word “crap” in front of my peers.
I am thankful that at least one teacher in this building understands what education should be. Yes, studying for tests and learning some stuff is important. But being able to express yourself is such a valuable skill to possess. Being able to be yourself in front of people who don’t know you so well is intimidating and thrilling and nerve wracking and joyous all at once. Ms. Bunje, I want to thank you personally for being a great teacher and a great person. Thank you for taking the time to understand us and for caring about our lives. It means a lot <3
Love,
Kassia
I DONT EVEN KNOW WHAT TO SAY OTHER THAN MY SENIORITIS IS SO BAD RN
ReplyDeleteLet’s remind each other that I’m still a junior… ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I guess what I can remember are all of the tired nights (like tonight), rushing to get assignments done, and just straight up procrastinating. Hell, that’s what I’m doing right now. I’ve been so wiped out from all the stress this year, that when I get home, I go right to sleep. I feel like I’m a zombie or something because of how I’ve been sleeping lately.
But honestly, I want to thank everyone in 204. Even though some of them cannot read this blog, like Pierce, JY, Alexis, Jamie, etc. Thank you for being apart of my extended family. Thank you for making me feel comfortable in my own skin. And when I think back on it, I don't ever recall feeling afraid of being judged or nervous when it came to you guys. That was the true magic of this class and this family that we have come to know and love. I know not everyone can get along all of the time, but we never did fight with each other. I love you all so much.
Now I just want to do some shout outs:
Bunj. You are my go to when I have trouble in my life. Although, I could never really find the time between classes because of some teachers (*insert rolling eye emoji*), you were a calming presence when I did get to talk with you. Thank you for really showing yourself to be my second mother, who constantly loved and reassured me, and all of your children, through hard times. Love you and I hope to get an invitation to your wedding soon ;) ♥
Enrique. Aye bud thanks for always grading my papers and just overall being a super fun and cool dude. I’m gonna miss sitting near you all the time and trying—but miserably failing—to beating you in Uno. You and Sierrah = cutest couple 2k16
Manny. Remember when I used to “bully” you in the 7/ 8th grade? Good times. You are still the same goofball that I used to roast on the after school bus everyday in Davies. I’m gonna miss your “is my blue your blue” talks, and your daily “hey bunje!” ’s. And oh my we are so bad at physics but that’s okay, because we were the research crew for online answers. ;)
Kassia. First we clicked like sisters, then other people said we looked like sisters, and now we fight like sisters! lolll! I know it’s not easy dealing with a sarcastic—for lack of a better word—bitch, like me :) And I think we have a minimum of 10 small annoyances with each other per day, but there is honestly no one else I would love to spend my high school career with. I love you so much sissy ♥ :*
DeleteTeagen. Thank you for pushing me to do lax. I never would’ve been introduced to better friends or gotten closer to you if it was not for you. You’re patient and a great leader. I just know that you are going to do great things in the future. Love you crazy girl.
Elena. I LOVE YOU. SO MUCH. I can’t even put into words how much of a great woman and friend you have become over the past 4 years. I’m so proud of you and everything you do. This is obviously not a farewell to us, but rather a farewell to the “lunchtime-crunchtimes” that’d entail us speed-walking to the library after choir everyday. Which in turn, lead to us eating lunch in Physics everyday as well. Physics work would never be the same without us looking up the answers ♥ Again, love you sm. :*
Melissa. You is my main bitch. Like fr words cannot describe how great we have become as friends. I can be straight-forward and honest with you and we can talk about the things that normally are hard to talk about, with ease. And I can expect you to always be as straight-forward with me too. I also love your sassiness and your ability to stick up for me and whatever else you believe in. You go girl. Love you ♥
Finally, before I fall asleep, PERIOD 6. I love you all, and I am going to miss coming into this small, but lively class, everyday. I can’t believe my junior year is over, but I am so glad to have spent the hard times with you guys. Nothing comforts me more than knowing that these are the people that I am facing the world with. Good luck with all of your future endeavors and have a good freaking summer because I know we all deserve that shit. Love you guys. ♥
Peace out on my last blog ever,
Erynn ♥¯\_(ツ)_/¯
P.S. I think this is only like the second time that I've ever had to split up my blog post at a whopping 1,691 characters and 818 words.
DeleteMy all time record of words being 6,040 characters and 1,151 words. Goodbye langsiseverywhere.blogspot.com, I'm gonna miss ya. ♥