The best part of Bee Week is reconnecting with old friends and making new ones. Source: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images North America.

Hello everyone!

Bee Week 2018 has officially come to an end and I’ve had a few days to reflect upon my experiences over the last six years. I first qualified for the Bee when I was seven years old so I’ve been involved with this event for nearly half my life!

My goal every year has been to increase my knowledge and improve my ranking and I am proud to say that I have achieved that. This year, I was named a Championship Finalist and tied for 10th place. I may not have won the National Spelling Bee, but sometimes it’s not the result that matters as much as the process. I’ve not only learned words that will stay with me for the rest of my life, I’ve also learned the value of persistence, hard work, and resilience. All of these lessons will help me succeed in the next phase of my life.

Thank you to everyone who supported me during my journey especially my parents, who devoted so much time and energy to help me reach my goals. Thank you to my sister Anya for her patience and love, and thank you to Coco for always making me smile with her antics and distinct duende.

Lastly, I’d like to thank Scott Remer, a former National Spelling Bee participant and the author of Words of Wisdom, who coached me this last year and kept things in perspective for me.

Please check back for more photos in the upcoming weeks!