By Adina Amjad (YES 2021-2022, Pakistan, placed by AFS-USA in Ridgefield, WA)

At first, I was really unsure about joining the cross country team. I still remember asking one of my team members on the first day of practice if there was a way I could drop out of the team.

Luckily, I stayed on the team, and I have met so many amazing people as a result. My teammates have motivated me throughout the season and have become some of my best friends. At our last meet, we hosted senior night, where the team recognized all of the seniors. I got a bit emotional and teary-eyed as we talked about how I'll have to go back to Pakistan next year. Given my hesitancy to join the team at first, I never thought that I would be crying by the end of the season. 

Although the cross country season has now ended, what hasn’t ended is the amazing bond that I share with my coaches and teammates. My teammates and I still hang out with each other and are active in our team group chat. I'm so glad that I joined the cross country team and have been able to make so many amazing memories.