With their final semester of high school approaching, many seniors have applied to schools or are invested in jobs to help them prepare for life after graduation. While this is an exciting time for many, it also comes with emotions, fears, and nerves as many students are leaving behind some of their favorite years and their hometowns. With both exciting and bittersweet moments ahead, it seems fitting to reflect on what’s to come for many of these soon to be graduates.
With new beginnings comes last goodbyes. The last moments so far have been bittersweet. Seniors already had their last senior sunrise, last first day of school, and last Homecoming.
As events like
prom or winter and spring sports arrive, seniors are quickly realizing the significance of everything around them. For many, these final moments feel both like a blessing and a curse. “I’m going to miss the people,” Senior Alana Banier shared “I truly adore them all, but I know they’re all going to accomplish amazing things.” For Banier, not pursuing theater in the future makes walking off the stage both dreadful and a relief. As for senior Kaitlyn Elkins, she said “I’m filled with mixed emotions for my last season of high school softball. I’m excited to be back with my team! But sad about the little time we have left together and knowing we are missing some key players this year. It’s also extremely sad knowing this will be the last time my sister and I get to play on the same field with my sister”. As for senior Addison Brill, who is also leaving town, she said “I will miss the community and the family environment that Milford has!”
After high school, the seniors are heading in many different directions. Some are preparing for college, while others are starting internships, or even traveling to new states. “My plan is to hopefully be an astrophysicist and get my Ph.D.,” Banier said. Another senior Olivia Diaz shares her excitement for what lies ahead including joining a sorority: “After high school, I’m most excited to start making my life my own. I’m excited to experience living on my own, meeting new people, and starting college. Rush week is something I’m really looking forward to.” Many seniors have expressed feeling nervous about being on their own. “I think I’m going to miss the familiarity of everything,” said Diaz, who will be heading to the University of Alabama. “I’m leaving everything I know to go somewhere where I don’t know anyone or anything.” The transition to independence can be overwhelming for many. Another senior leaving this small town, Brill has exciting plans too; “I will be auditioning to be a radio city Rockette, an NFL cheerleader, dance on cruise ships, or go to the CLI conservatory.”
As these seniors prepare to leave high school, they reflect on the valuable lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Many have gained important insights that they will carry with them into adulthood. Banier advises, “ Take it one day at a time.”
Another great piece of advice said by Diaz is, “A life lesson I’ve le
arned in high school is that you can’t let your past define who you are. Even though things might be hard, everything always gets better with time. A positive mindset is key—life is only as good as you make it. If you don’t take control of your life, you’re going to be stuck in the same place forever.” These lessons will serve as valuable guidance for future Mavericks who will navigate high school with fewer bumps in the road. Lastly Brill added,” Everything works out the way it’s supposed to, so continue to just take it day by day.”
The senior class leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and resilience. As they step into the future, we look forward to seeing them grow and become successful adults. Their journey through high school has shaped them in ways they may not even realize yet, and the school will remember them for their efforts and the impact they’ve made on their peers and the community. Just take it day by day.”
The senior class leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and resilience. As they step into the future, we look forward to seeing them grow and become successful adults. Their journey through high school has shaped them in ways they may not even realize yet, and the school will remember them for their efforts and the impact they’ve made on their peers and the community.