Senior Feature: Rebekah Lewis

Journalism runs like a machine, and our writers are the gears making it run smoothly. As the end of the semester approaches, our senior writers and editors are getting closer to graduation.

One of our most lively seniors is Rebekah Lewis.

It’s not often you meet someone like Lewis. She is observant, kind and well-spoken. Lewis’s ability to make anyone feel welcomed and important is a feature unique to her, making her light up a room.

“I hope people find me being the glue of a friendship or group and I hope I leave a legacy of positivity and helpfulness. And that I’m super funny and cool of course,” Lewis said.

Her passion for cinema, literature, and music was not only inspiring but also unique. She can discuss these pieces of literature at such depth and with great meaning.

Throughout childhood, music has been a big part of Lewis’s life. Her first recollection of her favorite artist, Taylor Swift, takes her back to her elementary school days. Sitting in the backseat, listening to a, Now That’s Music! CD. Songs such as “I Knew You Were Trouble” or “All Too Well” played on repeat gave her a deep love for Taylor Swift and her music. 

“Her music has always been there to give me something to connect to,” Lewis said. “As cringy as this sounds that CD formed my music taste.”

Whether she had a rough day or the best day, Taylor Swift’s music has watched Rebekah grow up. 

What stood out to me upon meeting Rebekah, was her openness. Immediately upon meeting her, I knew I could tell her just about anything. Judgment is not in the room whilst having a conversation with Rebekah. 

“I loved Bekah upon first impression. She was very inviting. I remember meeting her my freshman year and she talked to me when no one else in class did,” Zoie Davies said.

Even when she has bad days, she always makes it a point to make everyone feel loved and appreciated.
Whether she knows it or not, our silly conversations and her welcoming personality has made every day brighter for everyone she encounters. 

Not only does her positivity wear off on others, but her intelligence can be seen simply through her words and interpretations of literature. 

“They’ve all had such an impact on me and they bring me so much joy and life,” Lewis said. “I love going to a bookstore and the movies and watching award shows. Seeing actors and celebrities. Pop culture has always been very central in my life and I admire it in all its forms so much.”

Contradicting many popular beliefs about Hollywood, Lewis finds it to be one of the most positive lights in her life. From actors such as Timothee Chalamet, to directors like Greta Gerwig, and many others, the concept of film has become a central part of Rebekah’s life. Some of her favorite films include Challengers, Ladybird, and many others. 

“It’s my favorite movie ever and every time I watch it certain points in the movie I connect with more every time I watch it,” Lewis said.

Lewis is a trusty source anytime you need a movie recommendation, or a new actor to fawn and crush over. 

An article about Lewis without mentioning her fangirl persona, would simply be incomplete. Timothee Chalamet, Harry Styles, and countless others are the topic of many conversations with Lewis. 

There is never a dull moment with her in class.

Journalism wasn’t always on the plate for Rebekah. However, now she finds herself there giggling with me and those around us five days a week. 

She was inspired by an article written a couple of years ago about movies and realized that it was the perfect class for her. 

“I had been trying to find an outlet to write about books I read, and movies I watched because I love talking about my opinions on things I am passionate about,” Lewis said.

And that’s when she stumbled upon the Lakeland Hawkeye. 

Rebekah has left a big impact on the school and everyone she has talked to. With her sense of humor that is nearly unmatchable, and her ability to make everyone feel seen, she will not be soon forgotten after she graduates. 

A big world of film and literature awaits Lewis, and everyone who knows her, knows great things await her. 

The journalism class is very glad to have such an opinionated and intelligent writer who brings life to the classroom.