Words from the graduating seniors

Graduation is a day of celebration and speeches. However, with only three students speaking on the graduation stage, not everyone can share their parting thoughts. Thus, many seniors offered their thoughts as to what they would say if they could give a graduation speech.

Senior Rashmi Jain says, “I would want to tell the people how important learning and working hard are. If you just give your 110 percent, you can do anything. You have to always aim high.” Senior Zhili Wang says, “Do not waste your time. Study hard. Be strong. There are a lot of hardships to conquer.”

Moreover, facing these obstacles will not be easy without the support and guidance of important people. Senior Steven Wu says, “I really appreciate all the assistance from the staff that helped me get through high school. I learned how to communicate with others and express my ideas.” Senior Stephen Chan adds, “I think my teachers are really good. I like them. I will remember [AP Biology teacher Katie] Ward because she is very easy to talk to, kind and understanding. She makes the effort to teach you.”

Furthermore, getting up every morning and going to school would not be fun unless there are truly great people who accompany you. Senior Folau Etu, who values his friends more than anyone else, says, “I like to thank my sons Joe G. and Raymont A. Shoreview all day!” Senior Ayaka Chin is also grateful for the friendship she found. She says, “I am glad I met all my friends here. They are some of the best people. I met here two of my best friends, Kathy Shield and LuShuang Xu.”

The school itself is also a part in molding the students for their future. Senior Jamison Hall says, “Aragon has cultivated just the right amount of adversity that it has allowed me to grow as a student and a person.” Chan agrees, saying, “I like the environment here. It is really nice. I feel like I fit in better here than in middle school. [I think] that high school students are more mature and accepting unlike middle school where they kind of judge you.”

However, school can also be challenging place to adjust to. Senior Emily Dinges says, “They did not talk about my disability [epilepsy]. It made my freshmen and sophomore year difficult. I wish they would inform the students about certain things because kids who are not aware make fun of other kids.”

However, although leaving may seem overwhelming, seniors are looking forward to the next stage of their lives. Jain says, “I am going to miss my family and friends a lot, but I am excited to meet new friends.” Chan says, “It will be bittersweet. Bitter because I will be missing my friends for four years and teachers who are supportive. But sweet because I am going to college.” On the other hand, Dinges feels excited about leaving. She says, “I feel free and more independent.”

With the things they learned in high school, the seniors will apply them in college. Chan says, “Be happy. Nothing is really the end of the world. Do not stress too much.” He adds, “Good luck and do not party too hard.” Dinges agrees, “Just enjoy yourself. You do not really know what you are going to major in until you get out of high school.”

On the other hand, college is a more competitive environment, which requires full attention and energy. Wu says, “As we grow up, we have more responsibility. I hope everyone will still stay on task. For those who decided not to go to college, I hope they do something meaningful in their life. Chin says, “Do what you want to do, but make the right choices.”

Graduation speeches are once in a lifetime experience, but unfortunately, not everyone gets to have the chance. Although not everyone can experience that shining moment, most of the seniors are grateful for all the support and memories and are hoping for a good start in college.