Just like the title states, a motto from Senior Mackenzie Barber, the Class of 2018 is definitely making a scene. As the 2017-2018 school year was approaching, many South High seniors were filled with various emotions. Many were nervous just thinking about stepping out of their comfort zone after this year while others were worried about all issues and upset because this is the last year. Thoughts about applying for college and scholarships were stressful. To add onto that, it’d be a hassle to balance schoolwork, a social life, a job, extracurricular activities and so on. Of course, that wouldn’t stop these Redwings. Others were excited about their last year in high school. One of those seniors, Lilith Riemer, states,

“During summer I was really excited for senior year. I felt like it would most likely be like any other year but there was just something about being a senior that made me really excited for this school year. I feel really motivated. I’ve had some feelings of loss and sadness as well… I didn’t want to take even a second for granted because I knew it would all be over soon.”

As senior year started and as it’s coming to an end, these young adults have plenty to cross off their bucket list! The bucket list consists of wanting to earn good grades to finish off high school, earn a honors diploma or become a valedictorian. Seniors spoke about wanting to do well in regards to sports and other organizations. One being Shouacua Xiong who wishes to make it to nationals for Forensics this year or Paige Klein who looks forward to becoming a two time State Champion in cheer. Others hoped to be and have been more involved with school events. For example, there was an enormous number of seniors who attended the football games. Senior Payton Steinhardt is spending her senior year living in the moment and cherishing her time with friends. On the other hand, other classmates are hoping to take actions towards their future. Senior Chloe Mendez wishes to visit North Carolina soon as she may move there one day.

When asked about attending their last high school events, a bundle of seniors had stated that it’s bittersweet. Realizing that it’d be the last time to attend school-related events as a student, many seniors were encouraged to participate. Because of that, more seniors have come out of their shells and spoke up compared to previous high school years. Others realized how old they were getting. While at a football game, Senior Eric Beltran admits,

“I scream until I can’t anymore. I yell as support until I’m out of breath. Attending school events are just more thrilling as a senior and as a student.”

Speaking of lasts, what could be a senior be looking forward too? The class of 2018 looks forward to their last school dance, prom. Homecoming had an amazing turnout for the seniors such as winning Powder Puff, Power Buff and best spirit week. Prom, on the other hand, is the real deal. Well, it’s the last deal. It’s the last dance seniors will be able to attend as a student. While graduation is on the top of the list, football and basketball games are quite high in demand. Friday night lights have ended but basketball season is here. Expect to see a crowd of seniors!

While attending high school, the class of 2018 has created plenty of memories. The kind of memories that will stay with them in whichever direction they go towards. In addition to that, how exactly do the seniors feel about graduating? Senior Daniel Rehm sums it up for the entire class as,

“It feels different. It’s like leaving behind something that you’ve known forever, and you don’t know what lies ahead. Frankly, it’s scary, but also enlightening in its own kind of way. And I wouldn’t have it any other way. Thank you, South for making me feel prepared for my future. It’s been fun, but I’ve got a life that I’m just dying to carve out for myself. Watch me, because I’m going to lead the world one day. And I’ll always be a Redwing at heart.”

Now here’s some advice to the underclassmen from the seniors. Many of the seniors want the underclassmen to try their best to strive for success regardless of the challenges or obstacles there may be. While in high school, it’s best to participate and get involved. Although Flex Mod and life, in general, could be tough, always keep up with attendance, grades and don’t ever stop. If you don’t, it starts to catch up to you. Most importantly, don’t sweat over the small issues. One day you’ll look back and realize you should’ve attended the game or the play. Also, when you look back at high school, stressing over the small things will be nothing compared to what you are dealing with then. Live in the moment and create memories. Senior Kong Meng Lee states,  

“Be the best you and don’t be afraid to be you. The more you are yourself, the easier high school is. Embrace your talents and don’t change who you are even if people shun you. You’re you and that’s what I love best about high school.”

Many of the seniors here at South High School have looked up to plenty of the staff. One of those staff members happens to be Jon Schrank, the psychology teacher. Throughout a senior’s freshman to junior year, Mr. Schrank has been their advisor for Student Council as well as their Red Team advisor from junior to senior year. Many of the seniors have taken his courses and has worked with him. Through that, the seniors have created a strong bond with him. Mr. Jon Schrank sends the seniors off with,

“It’s okay to work hard on your life. It’s yours and no one else’s. If you do not, who will? Be not afraid to try your very best even though you may not always win or be the top of the heap. It’s your best and that’s what counts.”

With that being said, here’s a tip to the graduating class of South High School from fellow classmate Joelle Vanderweele as she quotes Lao Tzu,

“‘The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.’”

The South High community wishes the class of 2018 luck in the path they choose whether that be attending college, going into the workforce, going into the army/marines/navy, taking a year off or other. There are only six months left until graduation!