It felt like just yesterday when I was walking into the high school for the first time with butterflies in my stomach, unaware of how fast the next four years would fly by. The student ID I got as a Kindergartener suddenly had a new meaning. I’ve always known that those six numbers included my graduation year, but it has always felt so distant. The year that I thought was so far away is now here—my senior year.
The first day back felt different this time. I was excited at the thought of only having one more year of high school, but when I thought about it for a second longer, other emotions took over. Senior year is the time when everything feels like it is happening at once. There’s the excitement of graduation and other senior events, pressure from college applications, nerves of what your future will look like, and the sprinkle of nostalgia that will appear at random moments.
With this being my final year in high school, I want to document the festivities and events seniors participate in around our school that make our final year one to remember. From traditions like senior jeans to our last school dance, I will capture these moments, reflecting on the bittersweet feeling of senior year. As cliché as it sounds, it is the beginning of the end, but there is still so much more to experience and document.
By the time I read this story again, I will probably be nearing the end of my high school journey, ready to walk across the stage in my purple cap and gown. I look forward to this year with hopes that everything will play out how it is supposed to—however that may be. As something to look back on, I want to list some of my hopes for this year:
- I hope my final decision on which college I will attend is the best one for me.
- I hope I create lifelong memories with the friendships I have.
- I hope I finish strong academically.
- I hope I take the opportunity to learn from the great teachers at the high school—both academically and personally.
- I hope I remember to enjoy all the little moments.
- I hope I am proud of myself as I put on my cap and gown.
