“I won’t feel blue, ’cause somewhere in the crowd there’s you.”
ABBA wrote this line back in 1980 to describe that no matter what life may send your way, you know you can overcome these obstacles with that one person in the crowd.
Aspen Wike, one of journalism’s seniors, relates heavily to this line.
“I can never feel down or sad when my people are around, even if everyone was throwing tomatoes at me up on a stage humiliating me, I would still smile and laugh knowing that they were by my side,” Aspen Wike said.
While she appreciates how others make her feel this way, she is describing the role that she herself plays in everyone else’s life as well.
The most prominent thing that stands out when talking to those close to Wike, is her determination to any cause.
The way she advocates and stands up for herself, or those she loves, is one of the most admirable things about her.
Aspen Wike, The Hawkeyes very own, is one of the most talented writers at Lakeland.
With an inspiring ability to give a strong and factual opinion on just about anything, Wike writes opinion articles on topics ranging from school start time, to bad habits and fairytales.
During journalism, you can almost always find Aspen reminiscing about old stories with her best friend, Rebekah Lewis.
“It’s nice to have someone who knows me so well and seen me go through so many things,” Lewis said.
Since seventh grade homebase class, these two have been nearly inseparable. Aspen emphasizes this friendship, and dedicates lots of time to it, making it one of the most important friendships in her life.
“She puts a lot of effort into the relationships she has,I really admire that about her,” Lewis said.
From making sure those close to her are always smiling, to listening to all the new stories from friends, Aspen has always been a steady friend to lean on for those close to her.
Her hard-working demeanor goes hand in hand with her ability to create lifelong memories out of simple moments. These memories are treasured by those whom they were shared with.
“I loved watching Star Wars together, even though she hated every second of it. And watching Greys anatomy together, even though I hated every second of it.,” Chase Petersen said.
“I wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for her. She kind of saved my life.”
Whether Wike knows it or not, she holds a very special place in the hearts of all those who know her.
Aspens High School experience may be coming to a close, but the memories and legacy she will leave behind will live forever.
“I just hope people remember me as a kind person and not one they tell their kids about when their kids come home crying about a bully years from now,” Wike said.
We’ve all had those days where we come home, tears in our eyes over that one person who just can’t seem to be nice to you.
Aspen emphasizes the importance of spreading love through her articles. How being a positive and kind person can take you farther than any hatred can.
“I have had my fair share of being a rude person, but I have never meant it and do not want others to feel put down by my actions,” Wike said.
She writes articles about all walks of life at Lakeland high, giving everyone their chance in the spotlight.
Also unknown to Aspen, every person she has interviewed feels special because of the time she took to make them feel heard.
“She impacted my life and changed my perspective on things, I owe a lot of who I am today to the influence and impact she has on my life. I’ll always be grateful for that,” Petersen said.
Aspen keeps her circle small, finding it better to keep those who truly love her close, and keep the others’ opinions far away.
After high school, Wike wishes to head into the Ultrasound career, while training for her associates at either Spokane Community College or Tillamook Bay Community College in Oregon.
There she will study Diagnostic Medical Sonography and likely heal her inner child, as she fulfills her lifelong dreams.
This has been her dream since she was about four years old. From a little kid playing with toy doctor tools, to a young adult sending in her application to medical schools, Aspen’s goal of being a doctor has been a given since she could decide what she wanted to do.
“I instantly realized it was the job for me and I haven’t looked back since,” Wike said.
What truly matters is how you view yourself, and how those you love view you.
As Aspen journeys off to college I hope she always remembers the impact she has on those around you. May she always view herself how those who love her view her. Hardworking, caring, and energetic.
As the world of Ultrasound welcomes Aspen Wike, Lakeland says their farewells during her final year as a high schooler.
She has had a big impact not only on journalism, but also all those who know her.
Countless opportunities await Wike, and I know she will continue to make people feel heard, and loved, for many years to come.
The school is lucky to know someone as hard working and intentional as Aspen.
I see how she accomplishes things with independence and strength that is really inspiring. I know she is going to do great things,” Petersen said.
So Aspen, know you are loved, because for many even on their worst days, nothing can get too bad.
Because somewhere in the crowd there’s you.
