Goodbyes are never easy, and in high school, they’re inevitable. Though what makes them especially difficult is not the school itself, but rather the experiences and identity built along the way. However, eventually, every senior reaches the point where they must “pass the torch”, allowing for an underclassman to step in, take the reins, and create their own legacy. 

A sibling goodbye

For senior Camila Delgado Holguin, school has always been something she experienced alongside her younger brother, Alfredo. “Besides the transition of schools, because I’m older, we’ve always walked the same halls, carpooled, and overall had the same routine,” she mentioned. 

Now, that constant presence is about to change. With Camila preparing to move miles away for college, the shift in their relationship feels more real than ever. While distance won’t break their bond, it will alter the everyday moments they once shared. “I know she’s only a phone call away, but it just won’t be the same,” Alfredo admitted.

Despite the unfamiliarity of the change, Camila is confident her brother can finish strong without her. “He’ll be okay alone, I’m sure of it. The only thing I’d advise is to live in the moment — balance grades and responsibilities but also enjoy the experience while it lasts,” she commented. 

Hanging up the cleats 

Coming into this season as varsity soccer captain, Diego Compean felt incredible. “All my hard work had finally paid off, and I was determined to end my last year on a high note,” he recalled. 

With a history of district success and great playoff runs, the team entered the season with high expectations. Though the outcome fell short, the final moments on the field carried a deeper meaning.  “I was bummed we didn’t win anything major, but my last game felt rewarding along with bittersweet. — I was proud of all my accomplishments, and sad that this was the last time playing with my friends,” Compean reflected.  

Now, as the offseason begins and his time on the team comes to a close, Compean hopes his impact lasts beyond his final game. “I hope I set an example for the other guys to always work hard and stop finding excuses, but simply get things done,” he emphasized. 

End of term 

Student Council (STUCO) is a major part of the high school experience, and for president Bahiyya Wilson (who began her junior year), it became something even more meaningful. “STUCO’s allowed me to tap into my creativity by planning events like pep rallies and homecoming, which I loved seeing people enjoy, so leaving is bittersweet,” she shared. 

Still, Wilson feels confident passing the torch to next year’s president, junior Ayden Buggs. “Ayden is such an artistic and driven person, so I know she’s capable of taking things to the next level — and she’s had an amazing mentor, aka me,” Wilson commented. So, rather than worry, Wilson is excited to see how Buggs steps into the role. “I can’t wait to see how she does — and hopefully more students participate, because events are so much more fun when people get over ‘school being lame’ and enjoy them,” she noted. 

In the end, high school goodbyes are inevitable. Eventually, the day comes when that chapter closes, and it’s time for a new story to take shape.