It was a truly special evening at the Montville Township Senior Awards, and we were honored to be part of it once again. This year marked our second annual scholarship presentation, and it’s a tradition that means so much to us.
A total of 35 Montville High School seniors submitted essays, each writing about why they love Montville. Reading through them was inspiring, every story was a reminder of what makes this town so special.
Choosing just one winner wasn’t easy, but Heba’s essay stood out for its heartfelt reflection on growing up in Montville. She beautifully captured how the town’s quiet simplicity, local traditions, and strong sense of community helped shape her into who she is today. From volunteering at the same events she once attended as a child to finding meaning in the familiar streets and schools of her youth, Heba’s writing was both personal and universal. Her essay wasn’t just a story, it was a moving tribute to a hometown that will always be a part of her.
Heba's essay:
"Ever since I was younger, I always wondered why there was nothing in Montville - no malls, no movie theaters and definitely no Targets. I would always ask my parents why our town didn't have the things other towns did. They'd always say that Montville wouldn't be the same with the bustling crowds and heavy traffic. Back then, I didn't fully understand what they meant. When I was younger, I spent most of my time at the Montville Township Public Library, reading books and attending quiet story times. I went to school events my mom brought me to, often unsure why she saw them as so significant. But as I've grown older, I've come to realize that the simplicity of Montville is its greatest quality. There's no rush, no noise, no overwhelming sense of having to keep up. Instead, there's a peaceful aspect of life here, a tight-knit community that includes everyone.
Now, as a senior in high school, I'm surrounded by peers eagerly counting down the days until they leave this town that they have spent their whole lives in. They all look forward to living in new cities, having fresh starts, and huge adventures. And although I'm excited for what lies ahead, I can't help but feel a little stuck on where I've been my whole life. Not because I've outgrown it, but because I know I'll never find a place quite like it.
Montville is full of memories that I will never forget. Whether it was fall afternoons at Conklin Farms, summer evenings at Diane's Dairy, or walks down familiar streets that hold stories from my childhood, there was never a time I didn't feel at home. Every Halloween, my mom took me to the Trunk or Treat. Every Eid, we went to the library's cultural event. Every Easter, we joined the annual egg hunt. Every summer, we waited for the Montville Carnival with its cotton candy, games and gorgeous fireworks. And now, I just don't attend these events, I volunteer at them. Volunteering at the same events I once enjoyed as a kid has been the ultimate full-circle moment. Watching little kids laugh and smile where I once did makes me feel like I'm passing on a part of my own story. Even going back to my own elementary schools to volunteer was an unreal feeling. Walking through the small hallways that once felt enormous reminded me of how far I've come and how deeply this town has shaped me. The community events, the familiar faces, and the calm and quiet everyday life here have shaped me into being the person I am today.
When I think of Montville, the first thing that comes to mind is its sense of belonging and community. It's a town that makes room for everyone. It builds bonds, holds memories, and creates friendships that last a lifetime. Through it's simplicity, it holds a huge sense of community and beauty. Though there may be limited options on where to go on a Saturday night, Montville always has something. Whether it's a familiar local spot or a yearly tradition, our experiences in Montville hold more meaning than anything you'd find in a bigger town with endless amounts of options. Everyone here knows this town like the back of their hand, which is the most beautiful part. I know no matter where I go to college or end up in the future, I will always be proud that Montville is my home."
We couldn’t be prouder to support Heba as she begins this exciting next chapter. Supporting the youth of Montville is one of the most meaningful parts of what we do, and we’re honored to play even a small role in their journey.
Thank you again to all the students who submitted essays. You reminded us of the passion, creativity, and heart that lives in every corner of Montville. We can’t wait to do it all again next year!
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With pride and gratitude,
Randi Bennett & Tracy Warsaw
Your Montville Real Estate Experts & Neighbors
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