Leaving the past years of college behind can bring a lot of emotions. With graduation just around the corner, many seniors may be feeling reflective or even down. It is important to celebrate seniors because college isn’t an easy task, and everyone needs a reminder of what it means to be a graduate. Celebrate the college seniors and make the end of an era special for them. There are so many ways to make this time even better.
One way to celebrate seniors, especially if they are a close friend, is to make a scrapbook or slideshow of memories. This can be done with minimal supplies, and the cliche saying, “a picture is worth a thousand words,” really seems to stand firm when reflecting on memories. Find group photos, or times from important days and memories that are still talked about. A compilation of pictures, whether physical or digital, can go a long way.
An activity to do, especially in a place like Athens, could be a bar crawl (if everyone is legal). This way, seniors can go to the different places where they spent exciting times with friends. College is a time where freedom is first experienced, and this is a way to let loose with friends, and maybe remind people of years before. Each bar probably holds some memory, and this can be a sweet moment for those leaving it behind. Athens feels like a small, distant bubble from the outside world, especially in college years, so make sure everyone soaks it up.
Athens is so special, as it is a place with fun dive bars, intricate stores and beautiful views. The views and nature in Athens are never things to take for granted. Go on a hike and explore the wildlife that may have been overlooked. Strouds Run State Park is a place to lie and relax during a stressful time. Maybe bring a picnic and just enjoy time with friends before graduation.
Hanging out with friends in simple ways is a great way to cap off the seniors’ years. However, maybe something big is necessary. It may sound over the top, but a going-away party can be a wonderful event to have. Gather a group together and maybe even celebrate more than one senior at a time. Try to find cheap decorations at Walmart or Family Dollar, and hold one last celebration for the 2024-2025 school year.
If one is a senior, know that graduating is such an accomplishment. Working toward a degree is a challenge, and getting to this point can feel sad, but it is amazing. The friends of seniors will miss their friends, of course, but pride most likely surpasses sadness. As a senior, it is also important to celebrate with those who are in the same shoes. Do this by having a special event together or even just talking about what leaving college behind feels like.
Overall, graduating from college is sometimes overlooked, but it is something to be proud of. No matter if it gets done in three years or five, being a graduating senior means one’s accomplishments should be honored and celebrated. As the future becomes the present for our seniors, wish them the best of luck in whatever they do next.
Kyra Dapore is a junior studying journalism at Ohio University. Please note that the views and opinions of the columnists do not reflect those of The Post. Want to talk more about it? Let Kyra know by emailing her at kd364521@ohio.edu.
