As the 2024-2025 school year winds down, our seniors are starting to feel the mix of excitement and anxiety that comes with the final months at Durango High. With graduation just around the corner, many are reflecting on their high school experiences, the challenges they’ve faced, and what’s next as they prepare to leave the halls they’ve called home for the past four years.
Senior Benjamin Gonzales shared his thoughts on how quickly high school has passed. “It’s really nostalgic to look back on my time in high school,” he said. “It’s crazy to think that just three years ago, I was a nervous freshman. The journey from that first day to now has been full of growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments.”
Senior year is infamous for “senioritis,” an all-too-familiar exhaustion and lack of motivation that tends to hit as graduation approaches. For many seniors, this is the final stretch, and while the temptation to coast through the remaining months is strong, the excitement of what’s to come keeps most students focused. The promise of upcoming senior traditions like Prom, Grad Night, and the Graduation Ceremony reminds them that the end is near, and they’re determined to finish strong. For Gonzales, staying motivated has been easier thanks to his friends. “I stay motivated through my friends. I look forward to seeing them every day, and their support has helped keep me focused, especially during those tougher moments of senior year.”
For many, the college application process has been both stressful and exhilarating. Early application deadlines have passed, and regular decision notifications are soon approaching. The weight of what comes next is heavy for some, but most are pushing through. While some students are eagerly awaiting acceptance letters from their dream schools, others are uncertain about their path after high school. Some have applied to multiple colleges, while others are considering taking a gap year to travel or gain new experiences before committing to their next step. Looking ahead, Gonzales is eager for what’s to come. “I’m really looking forward to graduation. It feels surreal to be so close to being done with high school, but I’m beyond excited to start a whole new chapter in my life.”
In addition to the college application hustle, seniors are counting down the days to their last high school traditions. Senior Prom, Grad Night, and, of course, the Graduation Ceremony are all major events that every senior eagerly anticipates. Prom, in particular, is always a major highlight, with students planning outfits and looking forward to celebrating with friends. Grad Night will be another unforgettable experience, offering seniors one last chance to celebrate before they step into the future.
For Senior Jaylynn Whiterock she said that she’s “looking forward to prom night, growing up I never thought I would go to prom because I always thought it was corny, but I figured that I should include it into my high school experience so when I went my junior year i had so much fun, the night was really memorable and i’m looking forward to it this year because I can bring Enrique” (her boyfriend who had graduated the year before)
As they prepare to leave Durango High, many seniors are reflecting on the memories and traditions that made their high school journey so special. From the nerve-wracking first day of freshman year to the pride of senior year, these experiences have shaped who they are today. For many, friendships formed during their time at Durango are the heart of their high school experience. Saying goodbye to these friends will be one of the most difficult parts of graduation.
Reflecting on the lessons he’s learned, Gonzales added, “The most important lesson has been not to stress over every little thing sometimes, you just have to go with the flow.” He also acknowledged how friendships have shaped his experience. “Friendships have played a huge role in my high school experience. I can’t exactly pinpoint how to explain it, but I know that having good friends has made even the most difficult classes and moments much easier to handle.”
Reflecting on her past Whiterock says “even though it’s easy stay in class, it’s easier to skip than to say in class and pay attention”
With their futures full of endless possibilities, the Class of 2024 is ready to take on whatever comes next. Whether they’re heading off to college, entering the workforce, or taking time to explore other opportunities, they’re excited about the challenges ahead. Although high school has been a major part of their lives, they know it’s time to move on and embrace what’s next.
As the seniors prepare to leave, they’ve also shared advice for underclassmen still navigating their way through high school. The message is clear: get involved in school activities, seek help when needed, and appreciate every moment because time goes by faster than you think.
The Class of 2024 may be preparing for their final steps at Durango High, but their wisdom, memories, and accomplishments will continue to inspire the students who follow in their footsteps. We wish the Class of 2025 all the best as they take on the next chapter of their lives!
