After a long, hot summer, seniors at Benilde-St. Margaret’s kicked off the school year with a tailgate in honor of the first home football game. In addition to the yummy breakfast and treats the students assembled, the tailgate was a time to gather as a community and show our Red Knight pride. This event was filled with laughter and excitement as we prepared for what we hoped to be an unforgettable last year of high school. Despite the excitement and anticipation for the football game, students share how they really feel about gearing up for their last year of high school.

As the new school year begins, the importance of community events and fostering connections with other students is evident. “I think these community events are really important for BSM because I talk to people that I wouldn’t usually talk to, and it’s fun to see everyone for one last year before we all go our separate ways,” senior Bella Yacoub said.

Senior Vinny Verrett’s enthusiasm for making this an amazing last year of high school resonates with the rest of the graduating class of 2025 as he speaks about the lack of school spirit in previous years and his plan to change that. “Attending all the hockey and football games this year is something I’m looking forward to, and really spending time with the community. I think our school spirit has been lacking in past years, so just trying to bring that up and have fun,” Verrett said.

While these fun events can sometimes take the stress off of college applications, for most students, those decisions still weigh heavily on their minds. “Applying to colleges and also finding out if I get in has me very anxious, but also trying not to slide into second semester,” senior Siri Gudmundson said.

Despite these challenges, the excitement for graduation day keeps the anticipation alive, as well as the sad reality of leaving behind friends. “I’m kind of sad for senior year because all my friends are going to go away. We’re all going to go in our separate directions, but I’m excited to start a new chapter in my life,” senior Bella Stevenson-Shimek said.

The tailgate kicked off a fun, jam-packed senior year. Blending BSM pride with mixed feelings about graduation, students look forward to college while cherishing their last year with friends and familiarity. The excitement of upcoming events, from sports games to senior traditions, creates a perfect recipe for the best senior year. As seniors navigate the highs and lows of their last year, they are finding a way to savor each delicate moment.