As the school year enters the second semester, class of ‘26 students are starting to reflect on their high school experiences while looking ahead to the next chapter of their lives after high school. When asked about their feelings regarding the fast approaching graduation date, seniors say they are feeling both emotional yet excited for the next chapter in their lives after high school.
Senior class president, Giselle Soltero, who has served in ASB at Riverside for three years describes thinking about graduation as an equal mix of anticipation and nostalgia.
“I’m excited, but also nervous,” Giselle said. “I’ve known most of these people since kindergarten, so it’s a little emotional knowing this chapter is coming to an end.”
Despite her emotional thoughts about graduation, she added she was very eager to see where the future takes both her and her classmates. Giselle also wants seniors to get excited about some old traditions such as senior sunset and prom, while also being on the lookout for new (and so far secret) senior activities.
Executive ASB officer, Liyin Feng, shares similar feelings of reflection, while also sharing her very honest truth about her true feelings regarding graduation.
“It’s nostalgic, and a big fraction of my life right now…”
When asked about her feelings regarding graduation, Liyin shares, “I can’t wait to get out of here.”
But on the other hand, she more softly claims that she wants to ”… Value this time before that feeling goes away.”
After high school, Liyin plans to study neuroscience, and credits ARHS and the leadership program for her confidence and communication skills.
Other seniors have taken alternative academic courses to prepare for their lives after high school. Alexa Clark, who is a full-time Running Start student at Green River College claims that the program has helped her ease into adulthood.
“Running Start has made me feel like I have a life started outside of high school.” She said, “It’s taught me time management and discipline…” Alexa added that while the fast-paced courses can be challenging, she very highly recommends this path to any rising juniors and seniors as the benefits, such as earning your associates degree in high school, make it all worth it.
Already, some seniors know exactly what they are doing after graduation.
Cash Renz has committed to Arizona Christian University to study education and play on their lacrosse team. Cash is excited to go down to Arizona and “Make new friends. I make new friends every day…”
At ACU he hopes he will “…go to a new environment and have more people to talk to and become friends with,” while also soaking up that Arizona sunshine. As for his high school experience, Cash fondly reflects on ARHS being a “positive community [that] has brought me a lot of positivity.”
Similarly, Ava Yu emphasizes the importance of getting involved in extracurricular activities in school. Being active in Key Club, orchestra, National Honor Society, Asian Cultural Club, and Raven Crew, makes Ava reflect on the impact of her leadership in these clubs. She credits her leadership roles to helping her learn how to work with others and communicate effectively.
She also shares that in her time at ARHS she has “…learned real-life skills and made lifelong connections…”
As far as advice for underclassmen, seniors across the board consistently encourage students to be who they are, and step out of their comfort zones.
“Your high school experience is what you make it…” says Giselle.
“… Do the classes you love, don’t take classes you’re gonna regret,” says Cash.
Liyin relayed three solid pieces of advice: “Do your homework, don’t skip, and, be smart.”
