As the year comes to a close, the seniors have been reflecting on the past four years of our school experience. After 13 years of the K-12 journey, including those awful days of junior high, the seniors get to take their final steps through Pitman and walk into the new crazy experience of life. As scary as it sounds, I know our hard work and perseverance will keep us moving throughout the rest of our lives.

We’ve definitely faced a lot of challenges and didn’t expect to endure some of the things we (and the rest of the world) had to live through. Regardless, we came back senior year with positivity and hopefulness of how this year would turn out. I can say with confidence that this year was memorable for each and every one of us, and we should all be proud of how we handled all of the unexpected challenges. 

I wanted to ask a variety of our graduating seniors about their feelings in regards to leaving Pitman High School and moving on to bigger and better things. 

• What’s the best memory you’re taking away from this year?

Tanveer Brar says, “My favorite memory this year would be becoming closer to all my friends and going to football games!”

“The best memory I’m taking away is having fun at track practice with my friends,”  states Tiffany Sommerville.

• What challenge did you face throughout these four years that you’re most proud of getting through? 

“I overcame the need to always please people who don’t deserve my time and stay true to myself. I also learned to not let others influence my actions,” says Bella Green.

Gabe Rocha also states, “One challenge I faced though high school was to be myself. I’ve never wanted to bother anyone and in trying to live up to that expectation I set for myself, I lost myself and the person I am. My friends helped me realize that being true to myself never goes out of style.” 

When talking with Sommerville, she mentioned she’s “most proud of staying active throughout quarantine because it was such a hard time being cut off from friends and family and being stuck in doors.”

• Is there anything you want to say to your fellow classmates in regards to your time here?

Antonio Porana answers, “Don’t be too excited to leave because high school only happens once in your life.”

Rocha also states, “When being at Pitman, try not to dwell on the things you could’ve done. Enjoy the time you have with teachers, friends, family, or whoever. Try not to get involved in drama and enjoy the moment you’re in now, because it will definitely be gone before you realize it.”

• What advice do you have for the younger classes as they continue their journey?

“I would recommend that the younger classes realize grades and academics aren’t absolutely everything. You’re only going to be in high school once, so make sure to try new experiences and do things you enjoy,” Micah Littlepage states. 

“Don’t be afraid to ask for help,” advises Ramina Bella.

Lastly, Green expresses, “A small group of friends is better than a big one. Be nice and respectful to people. Try to say a compliment to someone at least once a day.” 

The final thing I wanted to do was ask Mr. Patrick Norris and Ms. Katie Mackey how they feel about the graduating seniors’ leaving. 

• What are you going to miss the most about the graduating class of ‘22?

Norris reveals, “I’m going to miss the determination and ability to find the good this graduating class has. In the face of so many setbacks and challenges these students always manage to see the positive and find a way to have fun.”

Mackey states, “I have loved getting to know the class of 2022! I am going to miss the hilarious personalities of my students. This year has been full of more than just learning- we’ve also had lots of laughs, and deep and real conversations. I really appreciate all my students!”

• Do you have any wisdom to share with the class of ‘22?

“Don’t be afraid to take risks and bet on YOURSELF. Take chances that scare you because everyone is terrified. Build a life you love and keep your chosen family close. Trust yourself, you can do it,” Norris affirms.

Lastly, Mackey tells us, “if you think everyone hates you, you probably need to sleep; if you think you hate everyone, you probably need to eat. Naps and snacks – have more of them!”  

The seniors’ journey throughout high school has been a crazy one, but Pitman High School provided us with so many opportunities, lessons, and adventures that we will never forget! Thank you for everything you have done for us.