On Thursday April 13, the annual senior panel, also known as “Just for Parents Senior Student Speaker Panel” will be moderated by BSM’s school Psychologist Dr. Jules Nolan in the theater at 11:30 along with a lunch provided by Jimmy John’s. In the years past, it has been well attended and popular among the seniors, their parents, and their teachers.

The Faith and Wellness Co-Chair within Benilde-Saint Margaret’s Parent Association organized this event. This year, Casey Bergquist, Loryn Follrath, and Elizabeth Laukka are the parents organizing it this year. The PA sent seniors an email recommending that they participate in this event and share their experiences as seniors at BSM. Normally, this event is attended by parents, guardians, and faculty that come to hear the seniors’ insight on BSM as a school and what it has been like as a student. There were many reasons why seniors wanted to speak at this event, “Since I have been at BSM since 7th grade, I had an interest in being a part of the senior panel. Throughout my six years at BSM I have conquered many challenges, accomplishments, and made friends. I am happy this panel will give me the opportunity to share my experience at BSM with current and future families,” senior Ellie Krusemark said.

Any senior regardless of interests and extracurriculars will be given the opportunity to speak at the panel. However, the number of seniors will have to be narrowed down 8-10. As a result, those speaking are Val Coppo, Jack Schull, Sophia DiPaola, Francsesca Lichtenberger, Ellie Krusemark, Jackson Sando, Samantha Steensland, Shea Traverse, Nelson Yeung, and Max Melancon.

Monitored by Dr. Nolan, the audience will be able to ask the seniors who are on stage questions. There will also be questions prepared ahead of time that will allow the seniors to think about how they will respond. The questions could involve the seniors’ academics, athletics, or social life at BSM. “It is especially helpful to newer families—junior high or high school—who are wanting to learn helpful ways to assimilate, get involved, etc. It is also nice for some to watch a student or family member reflect on their time, accomplishments and achievements,” Laukka said.

Considering this panel has been happening for more than 20 years, it seems to be a good way to allow seniors to keep their parents and teachers informed on how their experiences have been at BSM.