Farewell Seniors: On the Path To College and Beyond

   From the beginning of the year, the Class of 2023 has put all their hard work into beating senioritis college applications. Constantly writing essays, submitting AP tests, taking exams, and filling out applications that will potentially wow the admissions team at their dream college. After continued months of patient waiting, students faced both excitement and potential disappointment around the months of March and April. 

   After receiving acceptances, students celebrated May 1 as the national Decision Day, the day they decide where to spend their future after West High. Prior to Friday’s Decision day celebration, many seniors had to organize their options and pick the school they felt  was the best fit for them. Senior Sohan Devalapurkar (12), who is 100% committed to UCLA, felt that visiting his school prior to committing was what drove him to make his decision: “A large part of why I chose UCLA was the atmosphere I got to experience during their Bruin day. I really enjoyed walking around campus and learning more about the school which made it easier for me to visualize going there for the next four years.” Devalapurkar emphasized that because UCLA is close to home, he’ll enjoy the ability to be able to visit home whenever he feels homesick.

   Choosing a college with an environment you would thrive in is so important, especially when you’re living on campus. Mayah Windt (12) who commited to the University of Colorado in Boulder emphasized the importance of meeting all the requirements for her dream school: “I really wanted to go to a school that had a lot of school spirit and pride, would be fun socially, provided a good education, and cared about the student body.” While considering these requirements, she felt that Boulder fit perfectly with these requirements and felt very excited to represent her school during the Decision Day event.  

   Devalapurkar also expressed his excitement to see everyone with their college gear, representing their colleges during the Decision Day event in the gym. The credit for this event goes to  Mr. Vick and the counselors for setting up this amazing event with food, games, and for bringing the Class of 2023 together as they near the end of their senior year. 

   Additionally, photos with friends were taken all throughout decision day to commemorate the beginning of a new chapter in their lives. Elizabeth Choi (12) shared that her favorite part of the event was  “the free food and being around everyone super pumped about their colleges.” 

   This event was a perfect opportunity for students to share their hopes for the future, and to celebrate the amazing achievements of the Class of 2023. Although the future may seem scary, it is full of so much hope, fresh starts, and a chance to find yourself by stepping outside of your comfort zone and into something completely new.

   Congratulations seniors!