CHS seniors’ Grad Nite represents the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth. It is a symbolic moment in which students unite one last time as a class to celebrate shared accomplishments and memories before moving on to the next chapter of their lives. It is an opportunity to cherish the bonds and friendships developed over the years, as well as reflect on the laughter and challenges that seniors have faced together. The senior activities for this year vary from Universal Studios, beach day, senior breakfast on the field, and grad nite taking place at California Adventure. These activities are all largely the same each year, the only major difference from last year to this being the switch from Disneyland to California Adventure, leading many to wonder if it is time for the senior activities to change.
Some seniors wonder if graduation activities should be the same every year, as they have been for the past few classes, or if seniors should get the opportunity to vote and state their opinions as the years evolve to choose what they want as the senior activities.
Students being able to have an input on these activities could lead to more participation in something that all seniors should be a part of with at least one of the activities being special and dedicated to the specific year of students graduating, being based on what the students indicate they would prefer.
By attentively listening to their comments and including their ideas, PFC and admin can work together to show that the events are customized for the specific preferences of each graduating class, resulting in a more meaningful and memorable experience for the seniors. For example, if students indicate through a vote that they would prefer it, one year the senior class could go to Six Flags instead of Universal Studios.
Grad Nite is frequently used as a final bonding experience before students set out on their own paths, allowing them to make lasting memories together. Because of this, seniors should have a say in senior activities to ensure that the event is specific to their interests. Incorporating personalized activities into future year’s classes can enhance the meaning of Grad Nite and attract more students to participate since it would incorporate activities they voted on.
Admin and ASB should take action in realizing that if enough seniors are not participating in all of the senior activities and only in some of them, there may be a reason why. Voting and having people voice their opinions about activities could be beneficial to both the school and students. A Google form with options for students to pick from could be a good example to get students involved and engaged.
“I think that the senior activities include various options that allow a broad selection of students to participate in and love,” said ASB Pep Commissioner Maya Propper.
Some alternatives for the overdone senior activities and Grad Nite options could include everything from the tentatively planned trip back to the student’s elementary school, Knotts Berry Farm or a drive-in movie.
While it is common for senior students to attend Grad Nite, admin need to understand the importance of adapting to the individual needs and preferences of all students to ensure that the event is as enjoyable as possible for everyone. Grad Nite is incredibly meaningful and important for seniors to spend together since it is their last opportunity to celebrate and cherish all the memories they made as a graduating class.
