A Farewell Interview with Joseph Porche '16

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Joseph Porche ’16

In the blink of an eye, another school year has come to an end, and with this another class of exceptional seniors prepare to say their farewells. While most can agree that this would be both a happy and sad time for seniors, there is no person who truly understands what it feels like besides a senior himself. Understandably, every senior has a unique perspective on graduating and each will take with him different lessons.

In taking a moment to interview senior Joseph Porche, I am able to share a glimpse of this momentous time.  Joseph is a prime example of a well-rounded student who has actively participated in the Brother Martin High School community for the past five years. He will be successful in life thanks not only to the education he received at Brother Martin, but also the life lessons that have come with it.

How do you feel about leaving Brother Martin? Happy? Sad? Both?

“Both. Some days I can’t wait to leave, and other days I wish I could start all over again so I could appreciate the time more.”

What “special senior year moment” are you looking forward to the most?

“I am really looking forward to the dinner hosted by Brother Martin the night before graduation and the graduation ceremony. A lot of us are going in different directions in life. Those two nights might be the last time I see some of the people I spent the last five years growing up with and getting to know.”

What are some of your fondest memories at Brother Martin?

“Some of the fondest memories I have at Brother Martin are putting on the pep rallies with Student Council and traveling to Cross Country meets out of town.”

In what ways do you feel Brother Martin has molded you to become the person you are today?

“Brother Martin expects so much of its students. We are taught very early on that the way to succeed in this world is to achieve the whole package. In my five years at Brother Martin, I have become a better leader, student, and Catholic.”

Where are you going to school next year and why? Do you feel prepared?

“I am going to LSU to major in English. I have no doubt that I am prepared.  Brother Martin has definitely set me up for success.”

How do you feel about the switch from being an upperclassman in a place you are so familiar with to an underclassman in a school you have never attended?

“I am ready for the challenge. I remember the feeling of attending Brother Martin as an underclassman, and I believe that I handled the transition well. I hope it’s a similar journey for me at LSU.”

What are some lessons you have learned while attending Brother Martin that you will take with you for the rest of your life?

“In my time at Brother Martin, I have gained a better understanding of selflessness. I have met so many students, teachers, and faculty who have been so open to helping each other no matter the costs. It is evident that everyone at Brother Martin cares for each other enough to sacrifice their own time and to lend a helping hand. I picked up on this very early on and jumped on the train.”

Finally, any advice for incoming or current students?

“Whatever you do in life be the best you can at that particular trade or craft. Surround yourself with positive influences. Don’t be an 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. student.  Get involved. Once you’re involved, get involved some more.”

 

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Submitted by Michael Lopez ’17 (News Writer- Crusader Correspondents)