Senioritis

Melody Wu

Dr. Seuss once said, “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.” While it sounds cheesy, this quote reminds us that we don’t often recognize the significance of our experiences until they’re just a speck in our past. Each day, as I wake up, drive to school, attend class and eat lunch, I feel almost indifferent toward the imminent end of high school. After voluntarily signing up for and conquering six AP tests my senior year, I find myself longing for it all to be over. It’s natural for some of us to not feel nostalgic or sentimental so soon, especially when it feels like we’ve been running an endless, taxing marathon the past few years—when the present is still so overwhelming. And that’s okay; it’s okay to want the weight finally lifted off your shoulders and the stress dissipated from your mind. I, too, am excited to leave the burdens and pressures of high school behind—to start anew. 

But, when I pause to reflect, I realize that without the structure and orderliness of school, I fear losing my way. It was through the routineness, predictability and repetition of school life that I discovered purpose and friendship. In the absence of this routine—this hidden gem of a ritual—will life become devoid of meaning? Hopefully not, but that is one thing I’ll surely miss about being a senior and a high schooler. Yes, we’ll gain more independence once high school is over, but with it comes the loss of a certain order that I, and maybe others, have come to appreciate. 

I think all of us can probably relate to the fear of stepping into a future filled with uncertainties and new beginnings. However, we should be incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished and feel content with our efforts. Whether we know it or not, as seniors, we’ve made an impact on this school. We’ve not only grown academically and artistically but also helped our peers grow. Right now, if you’re feeling like it’s too soon to graduate, or that you haven’t done enough, don’t worry. You have the next four years and beyond—whether that means attending a four-year university, taking a gap year, enlisting in the military or something else—to do so. Trust me, your words, your presence and your passion have left a permanent mark on the teachers, peers and environments that surround you. 

Without the community at OCSA, I would be an entirely different person. I wouldn’t have rekindled my passion for art or met like-minded individuals who understand the importance of creating. I am deeply grateful to all of you—each and every single senior—for what you’ve contributed and the lasting impact you’ve had on me. This article is a tribute to your inspiring achievements and the personal growth we’ve all experienced. 

So, although the end of my high school career still hasn’t sunk in, I can appreciate the wonderful people I’ve met, the amazing relationships I forged and the valuable lessons and treasured memories which will forever persist in my mind. No matter how sad, painful, happy or exciting these past few years at OCSA have been for you, holding on to a few core, positive memories can provide us all much-needed comfort. Try to keep in touch with just a few friends, classmates or teachers who’ve had a positive impact on you or your learning. Hold on to the things that mattered to you in high school, and forget about the rest. I regret not keeping in contact with friends after middle school due to my eagerness to liberate myself from those stressful, competitive years. So I urge you, even as you make huge strides forward in your promising careers and lives, to take with you just a few memories and friends that have shaped your high school experience—they will serve as eternal reminders of the incredible growth you experienced and the amazing connections you made.