As the seniors wrap up the end of their academic careers at Dinuba, a new chapter begins for the upcoming seniors. The first day without seniors here, and the school already feels different. It feels… empty. As if a piece of DHS has been ripped out of the school.

Now the juniors will be the seniors of DHS. Next school year, this campus will have a different feeling and student experience. It feels like just yesterday we were the underclassmen, eager to meet the intimidating upperclassmen. But that same feeling from freshman year is passed down to the freshmen coming up, so now we, the seniors, are going to be perceived as “careless” or “intimidating”. In reality, we are still partly those same freshmen.

For me, time passed by so quickly, yet so long. It’s hard to explain, but I’ll put it this way: At the moment, it feels like time couldn’t go by any faster, and as the days go on and start to repeat, all of a sudden, you’re getting ready for your final year of high school. It’s surreal. And for all the rising seniors, I know this can be relatable for many. We couldn’t wait to finish school and have less stress, but we realize now that this may be the last time we have little to no real-world stress. High school is perceived as one of the most stress-free and fun times in an American’s life, and that notion holds some truth behind it.

To the Class of 2026, hold Dinuba High’s standards with you everywhere you go. Good luck on any journey you choose to walk. Also, it is okay to not know exactly what to do next. Success isn’t overnight. It takes time, perseverance, consistency, and, at times, asking for help or guidance, which some people don’t do. This is the beginning of all your guys’ new chapter, which is exciting yet may seem scary. Regardless, enjoy life, work hard, and embrace this unfamiliar journey called adulthood.

To the Class of 2027, let’s make our senior year the most unforgettable, fun school year we have had up to this point. Make new friends, step out of your comfort zone. Be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Leave your mark on this new campus, and welcome any newcomers. Be in the moment, don’t let yourself get caught up in the mindset of “in 2 weeks…” or “in 6 months,” as yes, it is good to think ahead, but let yourself just be in the moment and take in each day as a new opportunity. 

But first, let’s enjoy our last summer. See you next year!