Adeline Courtney, '27
After attending high school for four years, strong bonds, habits, and memories have been made. It can be challenging to say goodbye to everything and begin such a new journey. A group of seniors were interviewed to understand how the end of their high school experience feels and how it is navigating through the many accompanying emotions.
After interviewing the class of 2025, three significant topics seemed to be repeated throughout various students. First, the bittersweet factor of the entire year was prevalent. One student highlighted this by saying, “‘It’s very exciting to finally be a senior because we have all been waiting, but this year is also full of our last firsts.’” It is sentimental having your last first day of school or your last football game with your childhood friends. This bittersweetness is one of the saddest parts of the year, but it is also a sign of the new opportunities to come for these students and a wonderful reminder to live in the moment.”
The second theme that emerged from these students was the reminder for all students, no matter what grade level, to get on top of their workload. Whether studying for a big test or even doing homework, every grade counts. Though it may seem complicated to push through the infamous “sophomore slump” and stay motivated throughout the years, it is essential to try your best so senior year can be focused on final memories with friends, faculty, and family.
Finally, one student described just how important it is to stay close to those individuals who make up the grade. No matter who they are, what they do, or how close you might be to them, every member will be a part of you for the rest of your life. This is your high school class! These classmates played a significant role in what shaped you as you matured. Instead of ending high school with separate groups and closed-off relationships, end it with a big family of friends in our tight-knit community!
With the final few months of school for the class of 2025, these seniors have so many memories left to make. Their ideas of a strong community, a good work ethic, and a reminder to live in the moment are great things for all of us to keep in perspective.