Today wasn’t just another day, it marked the end of my high school journey and a beginning of a new chapter, my college journey. My six years in high school weren’t easy, but they were definitely worth it!
My last year in high school truly humbled me. I was consistently being an academic awardee every grading period. But during the first quarter of this school year, I didn’t have any award. Honestly, I was confused and disappointed. I had been confident I would make it.
But that moment didn’t define my journey. Instead, I used it as motivation to keep going.
Finally the big day arrived, my high school graduation.
The assembly time was 7:00 A.M., but we got to the venue 30 minutes early. We were a bit too early, actually, because of much excitement.
As we entered at the gymnasium, I felt a rush of excitement. I accompanied my parents to their seats and went outside to get ready for the processional.
The ceremony started exactly ay 7:30 A.M. As I walked to my seat, I felt a mixed of emotions. I was happy to finally be graduating, but nervous as I was to began a new chapter of my life. It’s like stepping into the unknown.
Before the awarding of medals and diplomas, a thanksgiving mass was held. During the homily, the priest asked, “If you were a fruit, what would you be?”. I couldn’t help but to laugh in my mind, it was such a random question!. However, at the end he said, “What ever fruit you are, today is the day to see the fruit of your labor”.
That moment made me reflect on everything I had gone through, the struggles, the late nights, and especially the tough times during the pandemic when we were on modular learning. I remembered my parents sacrifices to pay for my tuition and provide me allowance. Then I smiled to myself, realizing that this truly was a milestone in my life.
After the mass, here comes the awarding of medals and diplomas. As I waited to for my name to be called, I felt so nervous. I egven started overthinking, “What if I stumbled while walking on the stage? That would be so embarrassing!”
But when they called my name, I walked up with confidence and a big smile. I took off my cap, my mother put on my medal, and my father handed me my diploma. I took one step forward, bowed, and that was it, a short but unforgettable moment that I had long anticipated.
We ended the ceremony by singing our graduation song. It was a bit chaotic as we didn’t have enough time to practice. But honestly, it was so much fun!
After the ceremony, I took pictures with my friends, the ones who supported me, ate lunch with me, and listened to my rants every time I failed my exams. I also said goodbye to my teachers who guided and taught me throughout high school. If it weren’t for them, I wouldn’t be who I am today.
As I close this chapter of my life, a new one is about to begin. I’m still afraid, just like I was when I started Grade 7, but I will try my best.
Graduation isn’t just about a ceremony. It’s the fruit of sleepless nights, cramming school activities, the breakdown during late at night, and all the laughter that got me here. As I look ahead, I felt so proud of what I have achieved and excited for everything that’s yet to come.
Author’s note: All pictures are owned and edited by the author. That’s all for now!
-Pat T.
06/16/2025
