Editor’s note: The following speech was delivered at the Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School graduation Sunday.

Hello friends, family, teachers, peers and everyone in between.

My name is Brigida Larsen and I am so proud to say that I finally made it through high school. If you told me that I would be standing here two years ago, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. And some of you did, and again I did not think that was a possibility.

High school hasn’t been an easy ride for me. Struggling with self image and depression tends to complicate things, especially at such a vulnerable age. I felt that instead of taking steps forward in my academic career, I was taking many steps back. I didn’t see much of a future for myself, until I transferred to the Martha’s Vineyard Charter School. The transition from the regional to here is what really made myself see what lies ahead for me in the future. There are just so many aspects of this school that have changed me into the woman I am right now, standing in front of you all. I have not only made it through the bumpy dirt road of high school, but now I am going down the beautiful path known as nursing.

Without this school and their wonderful mentorship program, I may not have figured out that nursing is the right career path for me. I’ve watched C-sections, sponge bathed old men, held a newborn baby’s hand while she got an I.V., and I don’t think there is another career I would find more satisfying. The charter school taught me not to only be kind to myself but to also be compassionate of others and those are some of the most valuable lessons to ever learn in this lifetime.

There are a few teachers that have helped me in the two years I have attended this school and I just want to take a minute and thank them. Mathea Morais — I am so very lucky to have had you for an advisor. You have really been my cheerleader and have helped me get where I am now and there aren’t enough words to express my appreciation. Jo Weinberg — you have helped me see the bright person inside of me and helped me shine. You have the most contagious smile and you are such an amazing woman. Ken Vincent — you aren’t the average run of the mill art teacher. You helped me so much the past two years. Not only are you a great listener, but you have such funny stories to share that will brighten up the most cloudy day. I know I’m not motivated when it comes to creating art, but you taught me some valuable lessons that I will hold on to. I also want to thank Louis Hall, Sarah Smith, Jonah Maidoff, Jane Paquet, Marie Larsen, Meredith Dillon and all the other wonderful teachers at the charter school for your support as well.

I have also had some outside supports that I want to quickly acknowledge. Both of my parents and my two beautiful sisters — you are the most amazing people in the world and I can’t think of myself luckier to have such a wonderful family. You helped me the darkness and in the light . . . you see this bright future for me and are the most wonderful supports that I have. I also would like to thank Jane Sarno, Danielle Scalata, and all the other wonderful family, friends and supports that I have.

I think that the charter school has really prepared me right for my future that lies ahead of me. Moving to this school was, ultimately, the best decision I’ve ever made. As I am sad to leave, I am also filled with so much excitement to begin my life as a nurse.

Thank you all for coming to celebrate this moment with all of us graduates, today. This is a day none of us can ever forget and we are all glad you could all come and share it with us.