Being a senior can be exhilarating yet terrifying at the same time. It can be stressful to make all the crucial decisions, yet the feeling of accomplishment when graduation comes around is something to look forward to. As seniors, we must be present in every moment to live the rest of our high school days to the fullest. Paige Fisher, a senior, says, “For me, senior year has been a time of excitement. Of course, balancing school work on top of ‘college hunting’ is stressful, but it’s the start of a new chapter in my life. I think everyone’s a little scared to leave what they know, but I can’t wait to see what I will accomplish after high school!” Another senior, John Kellis, explains, “I am anxious and excited. I think it’s always interesting going into a new chapter of life, and knowing that it’s happening very soon is both nerve-wracking and invigorating.” The class of 2023 is preparing to start a new chapter in their lives and is feeling a mix of emotions, yet it will all be worth it when we cross that stage at graduation. Senior year is not just about closing a chapter but opening a branch too. Rianna Linnert told us that “It feels surreal to be a senior because, looking back, I never imagined I would ever get to the point where I’m finally about to graduate, and it feels perfect to know all the hard work I’ve put in over the years was worth it, especially hearing when I got into my first choice college. I’m so excited to go to college and start the next chapter of my life, to be there because I want to be, and to take classes that interest me.” Seniors are about to take another big step towards independence, and thanks to NDCL, many of us can agree that we are ready for it.
It is no secret that senioritis is a real thing many seniors experience, especially second semester. Senior Paige Fisher emphasizes, “I have had an inkling of senioritis, especially towards the end of the year. I’ve tried to tackle it by remembering that I am so close to the finish line and want to finish strong!” When struggling to find motivation, it is essential to focus on living in the moment and remember that we are almost at the end! Many seniors have expressed that senioritis is challenging to escape from, yet having something to look forward to at the end makes it all worth it.
Exciting events are coming up soon for the senior class, including graduation, old cookout, Baccalaureate Mass, Prom, and after the dance. The type of 2023 is beaming with excitement for Prom, and Prom is one of the most memorable experiences for the class as a final send-off and one last event with everyone. Alex Znidarsic expressed that she is “looking forward to spending time with [her] closest friends and making memories that will stick with [her] forever.”
Some seniors we interviewed offered advice to first-year students for their senior year. John Kellis wants you to “leave it all on the table. Whatever pathway you’re veering towards in your future endeavors, start making strides toward reaching them. Do it with 100% effort. It’s your final year to reach your goals and aspirations for high school, so go for it.” It is essential to use NDCL’s college prep to your advantage, such as taking a CCP class or taking business if that is what you plan to major in. Furthermore, Matt Hoffmann is pushing you to “never be scared about trying new things. Figuring out who you are is a part of high school. Suppose you don’t expand to new areas. In that case, you may never find cool new opportunities.” While senior year is full of exciting “lasts” like our last football game, previous school musical, or our last homecoming dance, it’s also imperative to use your senior year to advance academically to help make the transition into college that much easier. But once again, it is also essential to use this year to make great memories that we will remember for the rest of our lives. Jordan Giudice is pushing you “to take a step back and be present. It truly goes by so fast, and sometimes you may find yourself just going through the motions anticipating the year to end.” Furthermore, remember to enjoy every moment rather than focus on getting to college. Every “last” football game, homecoming dance, pep rally, and conversation with friends in the hallway will all turn into stories we tell throughout our lives, so it is essential to make the most of these last few months we seniors have.