Graduation is just one week shy, and soon the Class of 2025 will be embarking into a new phase of their lives. While many seniors are attending college this fall, some choose other tracks after graduation such as trade school, military service, and the workforce. To support the futures of these seniors, Emerson teachers and staff are extending their words of wisdom and earnest advice to help guide seniors for this new beginning.
During this school year, AP English Literature teacher Rachel Jadormeo has developed a close relationship with the senior class. Since AP English Literature is a class taken exclusively by seniors, she has had the opportunity to connect with them, whether it is through academics or their personal lives.
“I want every senior to leave knowing that their path is not going to look like everyone else’s path of life, ” Jadormeo said. “If college and higher education is not in your future, then that’s perfectly fine. Just remember to be open minded and look into new experiences, new people, and new ways of thinking. But, also allow yourself to get uncomfortable, that is how one sustains personal growth.”
As educators or school administrators, they face a wide range of experiences, both inside and outside the classroom, that shape their perspectives and present valuable life lessons.
“Over the course of my time in the education system, I want to convey to the senior class that the past does not define them, ” Principal Kristen Sommers said. “It doesn’t matter who you were in high school or what you did in high school, your future is what you make of it. You can do any of the things you set your mind to. Also, never make decisions that close doors for you. You never want to burn bridges or close doors because you never know what’s going to come from different opportunities. Always leave opportunities available by just keeping those doors open.”
As the seniors prepare to advance into adulthood, they are likely to encounter a variety of challenges. It is important to understand how to navigate these challenging experiences seamlessly.
“You are going from having a really set routine to now learning how to do tasks by yourself.” English teacher Jacqueline McGaughey said. “You are becoming an adult and that’s a big adjustment. Make sure you are prioritizing yourself and your health.”
Furthermore, McGaughey imparts words of encouragement to students who feel anxious or overwhelmed ahead of the transition into adulthood.
“If you live in your anxiety and think it’s going to take over your life rather than just a minute moment, it is going to be all-consuming. Take a deep breath, take a step back, and look at the bigger picture.”
For Jadormeo, meeting her husband in college was a meaningful and crucial chapter in her life. Drawing from that experience, she shares thoughtful advice to students wanting to find their significant other in college or those who are stepping into the dating scene for the first time.
“Have ridiculously high standards,” Jadormeo said. “People might say that is unrealistic or you should just settle for someone. But no. Don’t take anything but the best from your partner. If they do not treat you incredible in the very beginning, when things get bad they are not going to be treating you great.”
Emerson’s class of 2025 has made a mark in the school’s history, as it is the first graduating class that has attended the school all four years. Among those who have witnessed their progress firsthand is Dr. Sommers, who has observed the class grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
“Watching the senior class grow over the past years has been rewarding because I got to know the seniors whenever they were 8th graders at Scoggins, Lawler and Vandeventer,” Sommers said. “I remember seeing them in the cafeteria for the first time and seeing the potential that everybody has in them. I couldn’t be prouder of our Mavericks and I hope they carry the values of ‘Be Bold, Be First, Be Curious’ into their lives.”
