Photo by Nyah Ruff
As the end of the first semester approaches, students in Hastings High’s Class of 2026 have begun reflecting on their final year.
Many believe senior year feels like the reward they all have been waiting for. After three years of long nights, packed schedules, and endless assignments, they finally get to enjoy the perks of being a senior, such as early release.
“Being a senior feels so unreal,” Kaiper Kaiser said. “It’s crazy that we’ve made it this far.“
Other seniors say the year brings a mix of excitement and responsibility.
“It’s fun having all the senior perks,” Diana Reyes said. “But, it’s also stressful. Everyone keeps asking about college or jobs, and honestly, most of us are just trying to figure it out.”
Though they have more tasks to complete before the year finishes, these students think senior year is about slowing down and enjoying the moment.
“I’m not worrying as much about being perfect anymore,” Reyes said. “I just want to make memories with my friends before we all go our separate ways.”
On the other hand, some seniors say they are too caught up between excitement and nostalgia.
“Every time we do something, I keep thinking, ‘this is the last time,'” Ella Davis said. “The last homecoming, the last football game, it makes you appreciate everything more.”
Even with the stress of college applications and the countdown until graduation, a number of seniors agree it is an experience they will never forget.
“We’ve worked so hard to get here,” Davis said. “Now, we get to have fun and make the year what we want it to be.”
As the months tick by, students in the Class of 2026 have begun holding onto every moment: every late-night drive, every senior event, every small goodbye.
“I’m caught in the middle of two things,” Kaiser said. “We’re still teenagers, but we’re about to start a new chapter of our lives. That’s what makes it special.”
