May has officially begun! But that’s not the only thing that’s starting: May 1st is Decision Day for students across the country, and marks the beginning of the college journey for ‘to-be’ university students.
Here at Verrado, we celebrate our students, and the accomplishments they’ve made. This is, afterall, the closing of one chapter, and the beginning of the next. This can be seen in our Decision Day celebration, which occurred during the A and B lunches.
A table was set up in the cafeteria, and students had the opportunity to sign cards for their respective future colleges. These cards were then hung up, so everyone can see our Vipers’ accomplishments!
Vipers also got the chance to spin a wheel for numerous prizes, such as college swag and gift cards. Representatives from NAU and GCU also helped with the event, chatting with their future students.
It’s not only a celebration for college bound students, though. There were also cards for military enlistment, vocational schools, and careers! The goal was to make sure every student was celebrated, no matter what their next steps in life may be.
Cynthia Smith, the College and Career specialist here at Verrado, organized the event. She thinks the event is very beneficial to students, and helps them have more pride in their achievements.
“My favorite part of organizing this event is creating a fun and memorable day for seniors to celebrate their accomplishments and their plans after high school. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the excitement seniors have as they look ahead to their futures.“
Smith feels Verrado has made this day especially meaningful by hosting the event during lunch and giving seniors the opportunity to share their plans after graduation. It allows classmates to see and celebrate each other’s next steps, and I often notice students stopping to read the cards that have been filled out.”
She believes this celebration is a very special part of the Verrado culture. She admires the amount of community it builds. Often, students unite when senior year is almost over. To Smith, that’s a special thing to see, and she’s grateful to have a role in it.
“I often notice students stopping to read the cards that have been filled out. It creates a sense of pride and unity, helping the entire class celebrate their accomplishments together.”
Kyleigh Gwyn, a senior at Verrado, also believes the celebration is integral to Viper culture.
Gwyn loves the way Verrado celebrates its students. Decision day is so important, because it makes students excited for their future, and ready to start a new journey. She also enjoys that representatives from colleges celebrate along with students.
Overall, Decision Day was a success! It was amazing to see Vipers so excited for their futures, and owning their achievements. It’s also amazing to witness students from different sports, clubs, and friend groups come together to celebrate their accomplishments and futures.
