TRUST FALL! A voice shouts from behind me as I scramble to get into position. I ready myself just in time as Elina outstretches her arms like Rose from Titanic and begins to tilt back into my direction. This scene unfolds unpredictably and often, keeping me on my toes and ready to hook my hands under my friend’s arms. I oblige each time, but whether they realize it or not, Elina offers the same safety net to everyone close to them. She is the kind of friend you can skip school to see a matinee showing of Saltburn with and still have a fun day with after the Alamo’s power goes out halfway through. She is the type of writer to crank out a stellar article on a fast-approaching deadline and still have the grace to write my name on it even though she did most of the work (long live Dantelina and Virjonah). In short, Elina is somebody you can always count on to brighten your day and provide a helping hand in your time of need.
Would you believe me if I told you that Elina came out of the womb playing Geometry Dash? Probably not because it isn’t true. But for their closest friends, it seems as if Elina has been tapping away at those triangles and squares since the dawn of time. This pastime, albeit not very practical, perfectly emanates the dedication and attention Elina gives to everything and everyone important to them. Enloe Chorus, her friends, and, of course, the Eagle’s Eye would not be the same without the steady presence Elina carries with them everywhere they go.
This strong work ethic and care for others has led Elina up through the ranks of the Enloe Eagle’s Eye to her current position as opinion editor, using this social standing to subject us all to her innumerable and steadfast opinions. Lorde’s best songs, the Hot Guy from the Maze Runner, you name it and it will be scrutinized in conversation. They have used this talent to author entertaining articles like Who Cares about Contemporary Art? and Singing Breakups Available Now!, an article that reached readers across the globe (China), per our SNO analytics.
Don’t be fooled–Enloe High School is not Elina’s endgame. This fall, they will be spreading their scholarly wings even wider and soaring their way into our northern neighbor’s capital city, Richmond, to attend Virginia Commonwealth University. This verdict came mere hours before the college decision deadline on May 15th. Their course of study remains shrouded in mystery, as none of the people I asked really knew what Elina’s major was called. To quote Elizabeth Sobel, “It’s like science.” Whatever type of science Elina ends up pursuing, we know she will change lives with her attention to detail and compassion for all living things. Except for the poor poor mink she so brutally dissected in Mrs. Ogren’s anatomy and physiology class.
Elina, we are going to miss you terribly here in Raleigh. You have left your impression on the hearts of so many people, both those you know and some you may not even remember. We are so grateful to be able to call you a friend.
