by Dayna Garcia Ruiz
As the end of the school year approaches, the question that often arises for seniors is “What now?” Their four years of high school are coming to an end, and friendships and routines are changing, as they take one step closer towards their new life.
Changes can often be scary, as senior visual artist Nicodemus Drummond puts it.
“It’s surreal,” Drummond says. “It feels like we’ve been working toward this moment forever, but at the same time, it snuck up on us. Im excited for what’s next, but I also know I’ll miss the people, the late night work nights, and the fluidity of this place. It’s bittersweet, but I’m ready.”
When asked what advice he would offer to his freshman self, he said it would be, “Don’t be afraid to take up space. You belong here just as much as anyone else, and your voice, your art, and your growth are just as valid. Trust yourself more—you’re capable of way more than you think.”
These feelings are also shared by senior creative writer Adalys Cristobal. “I’m absolutely terrified and so happy for graduation,” Cristobal says. “I definitely feel like I’m ready for the next chapter of my life but at the same time I don’t want to lose what I already have. I love the vibe of ChiArts and I’m really going to miss the space I made for myself. I will always gravitate towards art but it will feel different to not have it constantly around me. I’m going to enjoy the time I have left and I’m forever grateful to celebrate this milestone with the best people around me!”
English teacher Mr. Van Herik reflects on saying goodbye to students he’s taught since their start at ChiArts. “These seniors have had so much to grow through – the transition to in person learning, so many different administrators, much in and outside of the school to lead protests, and everything normally stressful about going through high school, Mr. Van Herik says.”
“I’ve seen them make deep friendships, apply their art to their life and work, and become leaders in this school. Seeing senior dancers, writers, actors, visual artists, and musicians go from their first unsure steps on stage or on paper to being centerpieces of shows and creations is enlivening. I am so proud of them,” he continues.
Despite the challenge that can come with an arts and academic schedule in addition to longer school hours, Van Herik says this structure will pay off int he long run. “My advice to our seniors is to know that surviving and balancing their lives at ChiArts is more preparation for real life than they may ever need,” Van Herik says.
“This may be the longest day and the most different skills they will ever need to demonstrate in a day,” he continues. So, no matter what comes next, they are ready for it. My advice is to keep and further build their village, to lean on their people when stress and strain comes – we all get through life with help.”
