As the holiday season settles in, seniors at Grand Ledge High School are cherishing their last Christmas on campus. Many shared memories of holiday traditions and the emotions that come with the end of their high school journey.
Kate Oberdank recalled a moment from her sophomore year that stool out among her four years of christmas celebrations
“We did Secret Santa, and it was funny because I guessed who I was on the first day,” Oberdank said.
For Jeremy Pangburn, the holidays have been more than just a time for festivities; they’ve been an opportunity to forge friendships. He reflected on his last Christmas at school and came up with mixed feelings.
“I’m happy, but at the same time, I’m sad because I’m not going to be able to do all the holiday things again,” Pangburn said.
Vincent Pearson discussed culinary celebrations in his Spanish class as a favorite memory.
“My favorite event over the last four years was my Christmas food day party in Spanish,” Pearson said.
Over the past four years students have had opportunities to experience many fond memories and for Pearson it was playing Dungeons and Dragons. “One time, back in freshman year, someone ran a one-shot campaign about Santa getting possessed by an evil ghost and we had to save him from it. That was a lot of fun,” Pearson said. Though bittersweet about saying goodbye, Pearson remains optimistic. “I’ve enjoyed my time here, but I guess I’m kind of looking forward to what comes next.”
Jack Datema echoes these sentiments, feeling both excitement and nostalgia as he approaches graduation.
“I’m sad it’s my last Christmas as a senior part of Campus Life, but I’m excited to see what’s new,” Datema said.
The last half of high school is soon approaching and Datema views this as an opportunity to make the most of it.
“It makes me want to take advantage of these last months at school and really enjoy them, spending time with family and friends,” Datema said.
As their high school days wind down these seniors’ reflections highlight the joy and laughter that define the holidays and their high school years. Their stories are a reminder to savor little moments and embrace new possibilities that lie ahead.
