The very first time I felt I finally had independence was being on a shopping mall trip with my friends without our parents around a few years ago. Now as a high schooler, I experienced great freedom over this particular week, revolving around the event of prom. I met up with friends to make corsages and buccaneers, and my parents were really supportive toward us through helping with our transportation. After having a week of AP tests and finishing the Science Olympiad National tournament, this event was a chance to have fun and relax with friends. However, maybe this freedom was given too early. Now, many peers who attended prom are testing positive for Covid. I hope everyone gets better.