The month of April is already drawing to a close. With less than a week left in the first full month of spring, students are preparing themselves for finals and AP exams in May, with seniors preparing to graduate and begin the next chapter in their lives.
For us seniors, it has been a long and winding journey through class sessions, homework, finals, and AP exams. Now, this May marks the last time we will see this cycle. For some, this is a euphoric end to a miserable chapter. For others, it is a bittersweet goodbye to a place of so many memories, good and bad.
The question is, who feels what way? How are seniors here at ERHS feeling as their last year nears its end?
Adrian Vega shared his feelings heading into this home stretch.
“It’s honestly kind of bittersweet. It all went by really fast, and while it’s a little sad to see it end, I’m also excited to start something new.”
He continued, “Right now, I’d say I’m more excited than nervous. I’m looking forward to a new environment… and finally focusing on things I actually enjoy… I had fun, made some really good friends, and grew as a person… it was a good experience that shaped me.”
Vega concluded with his future plans, “I’m planning to go to college, study what I’m interested in, and try to balance school, work, and a social life. I definitely want to stay in touch with the friends I’ve made too… But ultimately, I just want to start a career that I’m proud of and actually enjoy.”
Another student, Justice Flowers, shared his thoughts about graduating.
“Honestly, it’s been something I’ve been expecting for a long time… I must say, it’s been a letdown. All the old Disney movies kind of hyped it up too much.”
Flowers shared his future plans, “I’ll probably either get into an apprenticeship program or just junior college for now and then transfer… I don’t have a job I have in mind specifically, but I either want to do something in science or in physics, which is more math-based.”
Attitudes about graduation and high school life vary. Some feel glad to be leaving, some feel bittersweet, and some are uncertain of their future. But regardless of how a student decides to view this moment, it is undoubtedly exciting to think about what comes next. At this moment, students like myself and those interviewed have the opportunity to pursue the life and dream they really want. Here’s to the future, Mustangs!
