Senior year is a time of excitement, nostalgia, and big transitions. As the class of 2025 prepares to say goodbye to high school, many students are reflecting on their experiences—the highs, the challenges, and the reality of stepping into adulthood.
My Senior Experience
It’s been a fun year—I just wish it was longer. Most people would say, “I want to graduate already,” but personally, I’m not ready to be a grown-up. There’s something about the comfort of high school, being around friends every day, and the familiar routine that makes it hard to let go.
One of the most challenging parts of being a senior has been the expenses of all the senior activities. From prom to grad night, everything adds up quickly, and it can feel overwhelming at times. But despite that, these moments are once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and I’m trying to enjoy every second.
I’ve realized how fast time flies. Freshman year felt like it was just yesterday, and now we’re almost at the finish line. If I could give one piece of advice to future seniors, it would be to cherish every moment—because before you know it, it’s over. Take videos or pictures wherever you go, capture the little things, and make memories you’ll never forget. These days fly by, so live them fully, laugh a lot, and hold your people close.
Fatima Reyna: “It felt way too long.”
Fatima Reyna shared that it feels surreal to be a senior because it seems like just yesterday, she was a little kid, and now it’s finally hitting her that our lives are truly starting. “Senior year has gone by so fast, and it’s hard to believe it’s almost over,” stated Fatima. The most memorable moment in senior year for Fatima was the first day of school. She said, “It was our last first day, and that moment really made everything feel real and emotional.”
The biggest challenge Fatima has faced this year has been just showing up to school, to make sure she had the attendance to graduate. She pushed herself every day to stay motivated and make it happen.
When asked about her experience in high school, Fatima said she didn’t enjoy it that much – it felt way too long. But she’s excited to finally start nursing school though she’s still deciding between that and medical school.
Melanie Reyes: “This experience only happens once.”
Melanie Reyes said that senior year has been a mix of emotions. Some days she’s ready to leave, and other days it hits her that everything is coming to an end. Her most memorable moment was homecoming. She had a great time with her best friends, and looking back at pictures, it hit her that this was the last time they would all be together in high school.
Melanie faced some tough times at the start of the year, dealing with family losses. It was hard, but with the support of her friends, she pushed through. She also realized how much her view of high school has changed since freshman year. She thought it would be easy, but she faced struggles along the way, like failing state exams and not always paying attention in class. This year, she’s been determined not to give up.
She’s most excited about getting a job and earning her own money after graduation. If she could do one thing differently in high school, it would be to be more social. She wishes she had talked to more people and taken chances. She even regrets never telling her crush how she felt. Now that graduation is so close, she knows she won’t get that chance.
The transition to life after high school feels a little scary for Melanie, especially since she won’t be able to see her friends as often. But she says, “Make friends, join events, and make memories—because this experience only happens once.”
Elias Borjas: “Do your work!”
Elias Borjas says being a senior “feels pretty good,” and he knows his real life is just beginning. He’s excited about going to college and the freedom that comes with it. His favorite memory was going to the Marlins stadium with his friends just having fun and enjoying their time together.
One of the hardest parts for Elias was keeping up with grades, especially economics with Ms. Yanes. “I didn’t really care before, but now that it’s ending, I realize I should’ve cared more. It’s important for my future,” he said. Looking ahead, he’s focused on being more attentive to his work and figuring out his path. His advice for others? “Do your work! Enjoy it—it ends quick.”
Lidia Martinez: “Don’t be afraid to be yourself.”
Lidia Martinez also feels that senior year has gone by too fast. It’s surreal to think about how quickly it’s all ending. Her most memorable moments have been the simple things—hanging out with friends at lunch and being part of the school chorus. “These small moments have meant so much this year,” she said.
Like others, Lidia had trouble balancing schoolwork with personal life. It took some time to learn how to stay organized and manage everything. As a freshman, she thought high school would last forever, and it felt big and intimidating. Now, she realizes how quickly it all goes by. She’s learned not to stress about the little things and to enjoy the moments.
Lidia is excited about what’s next. She looks forward to meeting new people, learning new things, and finding out who she wants to be. She wishes she had stepped out of her comfort zone more—maybe by joining more clubs or trying new activities. But now, she’s ready to take the next step and see where life takes her.
The future feels both scary and exciting. She knows it’s time to grow and take on new challenges. Her advice to underclassmen is to not be afraid to be yourself, try new things, and enjoy the journey—because high school goes by way faster than you think.
Anonymous Senior describes high school as a “roller coaster—a wild trip full of experiences.” They’re glad to graduate, and even though the school food wasn’t the best, they say they’ve learned more in Miami High than any other school.
Their most memorable moment was freshman year taking it all in for the first time. Now, after getting accepted to UM, they feel like all their hard work has paid off. “Freshman year was fun, but I was super nervous, and I was not prepared. Now I’ve experienced more, grown up, and met so many people.”
For John Morales, senior year has been an emotional mix. “It’s very sad, but also nostalgic and exciting at the same time,” he shared. One of his favorite memories was Christmas caroling around Miracle Mile with the Miami Voice choir—a moment that stood out as both fun and meaningful. Ending senior year with choir has been especially special for him.
John admits he didn’t take freshman year seriously, and if he could go back, he would’ve stayed on top of his schoolwork from the beginning. Still, he’s proud of where he is now pursuing his dream of working in the music business production. His message to others: “Be as social as you can. Even with anxiety—put yourself out there. It’s worth it in the long run.”
