This article was originally published in Kaleidoscope‘s Spring 2025 print edition. It is being published as a separate online article now for easy access.
Coming to the end of their high school careers, seniors reflect on the experiences and life lessons they gathered throughout their formative journeys. Below, several Ward Melville seniors share some words of wisdom for their underclassmen.
Olivia James: Senior year is more than just the “final stretch” of high school. It’s a time of growth, reflection and transformation. For all the juniors looking ahead, expect a year full of big decisions, lasting memories and personal milestones. It’s the year where everything starts to feel real — you’ll begin to understand who you are and where you want to go. So, embrace the ups and downs. Show up for yourself. Lean on your support system. And most importantly, stay present … senior year flies by faster than you think.
Ryan Griffin: As you become a senior, remember that you must take ownership of your choices, whether that means monitoring your time or staying focused on work with the many distractions senior year will bring. Support your fellow classmates, work together and don’t be afraid to ask for help, because no one truly has senior year figured out.
Vincent Lin: Surround yourself with people who support you, motivate you and are happy to see
you succeed. Good friends will support you and push you to be your best.
Find a balance between school, extracurriculars, and most importantly, time for yourself. Resting allows you to do your work more efficiently. Eat well. Get enough sleep. Move your body. Burnout is real, and once it hits, that’s it. Just do what you love, and set goals that matter to you.
Jake Schwarzbard: Take this year seriously. It’s easy to get wrapped up in all the end of the year events, but colleges still consider your mid-year, and even in some cases, end-of-year grades. In all, have a great time, it goes by too quickly.
Isabella Caracci: Take the time to do your work, it will pay off. Try your best and put your all into everything you do, but know that you do not always need to be perfect. Make the most of this year because it’ll be over before you know it.
Do what makes you happy, and treat people with kindness.
Jason Stiles: As you begin your final year at Ward Melville, remember to make the most of it. Take time to enjoy the moments: attend school events, spend time with friends and appreciate the memories you’re creating. It’s important to stay focused and not let “senioritis” get in the way. Enjoy your senior year!
Katherine Kelton: Around the third quarter of senior year, there’s a distinct shift in everyone’s mindset: they defocus. I, of course, am guilty of this too. I had to push myself to do what I had done with ease at the beginning of the year. Still, maintaining your drive for classes and clubs is vital to finishing senior year strong and living up to your commitments. Even if your GPA is no longer a concern, don’t let your standards slip. Also, use that extra time after finishing college applications to apply for a summer job or internship; you will thank yourself for not leaving it to the last moment.
I would say the second half of senior year is the best time to make new friends. With the brick walls of cliques falling apart and teenage hostilities dissipating, people are more open. They branch out and reach out, starting new friendships and mending old ones.
Finally, do not forget who helped you through all 13 years of grade school: your parents. I understand that the summer before college is likely the final moment when all your friends will be together, but your parents, guardians, mentors and older siblings have sacrificed a lot for your happiness and success. If you are moving away for college, be with them as much as you can before you go. Make them feel appreciated.
