The last year of high school is a blur of memories, anticipation, and change. For seniors, it’s a time to reflect on the friends, experiences, and lessons learned, and to face the exciting unknown of what comes next.
For Andre Buford ‘25, a standout on the Stevenson Track & Field Long Distance team, this final lap is bittersweet.
“Honestly, it feels like I’m finishing a marathon,” Buford said. “It’s like I am almost done. It’s been a long-time coming man, but I’m ready to get out of here.”
Looking back on his time in long distance, he likens it to the slow, grueling build-up of a race: “You run for miles, and eventually, you’re ready to stop and sit down.”
As he reflects on leaving high school behind, Buford admits that it’s the social side he won’t miss. “All the assignments and the pressure in the social environment? It’s not worth it.”
For Student Council President Raul Oraha ’25, the realization that this year is his last at Stevenson feels surreal.
“It’s like any other school year but fast,” Oraha said. “Then, you start thinking about all the events, and you realize, ‘Wow, this really is the last time.’”
As he nears the end of his time as president, Oraha said he is grateful for the experience.
“It helped me grow a lot and build the club with other members,” Oraha said. “I’m not finished with clubs or programs. I’m just taking the next step in college.”
Even though Oraha is looking ahead, he admits he’ll miss the social atmosphere.
“I’ll miss the specific friend group, the interactions, but I’m excited to grow in college,” Oraha said.
For Mary Jona ’25, graduation feels both exciting and unreal. But leaving behind the familiar faces and social spaces won’t be easy.
“It’s crazy and exciting at the same time,” she said. “It doesn’t really feel real yet. It’s going to be sad knowing I won’t see everyone the way I used to,” she admits. “But I’ll always treasure the memories with my friends.”
