Reflections on Transition
This summer marks a unique time of transition for our graduating Palouse Pathways Scholars—a season of looking back, and looking forward.
On the one hand, they’re savoring the joy (and relief!) of graduation and looking back on all of their high school memories and accomplishments. On the other hand, they are looking ahead to their fast-approaching departure for college with a combination of excitement, anticipation, and maybe a little nervousness.
Before they venture off to write the next chapter of their story, our seniors were invited to share their reflections from this unique vantage point: their favorite memory of high school, what they will miss the most, what they’re looking forward to, who they’d like to thank, what advice they would give to the class of 2026, that sort of thing. Here’s what a few of them had to say.
A.T.
These past few years I’ve grown and learned immensely, in no small part due to those who have helped me along the way. I would like to thank my mom, Dr. Shenghan Xu, for always being there, my friends for supporting me and pushing me to be better, and my teachers (especially Mr. Coulter, Mr. Keogh, Mrs. Currier, Ms. Estep, and Ms. DeMartin) for encouraging me through my journey! I appreciate you all deeply.
Some advice I would give is to focus on your own path. Everyone is so focused and competitive that it can be easy to be peer-pressured into a path that may not suit you. Don’t be afraid to try new things or pursue what truly makes you happy, even if it deviates from the norm. Your life is yours alone to live. Best of luck and feel free to reach out! I support you in your journey forward, Class of 2026!
M.P.
My advice to the Class of 2026: Make sure you start your college applications early! The summertime is your friend. December was the worst month of my life by far, because I procrastinated writing my essays too much. I'd sit inside for the whole day while my friends were out having fun.
Even more important, remember that applying to college isn't everything in life. I've had so much fun in the second semester of my senior year, because I've been going out with my friends and doing things that I have more time for now, and I wish that I had set aside time to do that earlier. It'll be your last year with your closest friends; make sure you internalize that.
I'm going to miss the quiet streets of Pullman. I really wanted to get out of the countryside and move to the city, but looking back, there's a quaint feeling that you can't really get anywhere else. I think that once I actually move in for college, I'm going to realize how much I'll miss this place.
A.F.
I would like to thank my dad, brother, mom, friends, and teachers for being so supportive throughout my time in high school.
My favorite memory of high school was going on school trips for state competitions like DECA and swim. What I am most looking forward to is warmer weather! What I’ll miss most is my parents.
My advice would be to only apply to schools that you can afford (with financial aid if you qualify) and assume you get no scholarship money, because getting in and then not being able to attend because of cost is tough.
K.D.
I know it’s been said a lot, but don’t forget that high school should be fun. It’s wholly possible to balance fun activities with your friends and family while working hard on your academics and extracurriculars. Finding this balance will help you avoid burnout in the long run. Go touch grass!