It’s that special moment in time when the high school chapter comes to an end in someone’s life. Pictures were taken, graduation caps soared, and family members were cheering for the seniors as they stepped out of high school forever. This era isn’t just about endings; it’s about looking back at the all-nighters, the moments of failure that turned to resilience, the effort, and the friendships that reflect the last four years. To celebrate this milestone, three graduating seniors from Santiago High School’s Class of 2025 reflect on what high school meant and the moments that changed their lives.
Jaden Rimando, an aspiring dentist, is heading to California State University, Fullerton, to major in biology. For her, high school wasn’t just about studying and textbooks; it was where she began to discover who she truly was. She never expected the words “atta girl” to mean so much, but during her freshman year, that small bit of praise from the freshman girls’ basketball coach helped build the confidence she still carries today. “I had really low self-confidence, and his approval of something I tried so hard meant so much to me,” she shares.
A more personal shift occurred in her sophomore year following a painful breakup of a friendship. Though difficult, it taught her the value of empathy and connection. “Now I try to make sure that everyone sees me as a person of no judgment and comfort, even if we just met.” By the time she became an upperclassman, her confidence had grown, and so had her being recognized. She received two MVP awards from teachers who recognized her effort, not just in school, but also in her personal life. With a brighter outlook on life, Jaden looks ahead to the future with optimism. Her message to incoming freshmen? “Eat what you want, say what you want, and do what you want. Don’t hold back from priceless opportunities.” While Jaden found her strength through personal growth and resilience, another Class of 2025 graduate channeled a similar strength with discipline and service in the U.S Marine Corps.
Albert Gutierrez is heading to basic training boot camp, continuing the military route that started with four years in AFJROTC. His dedication has already earned him a jumpstart in his military career: he’ll be enlisting as an E-2, Private First Class. Although he’s set on returning to the Marines, he will always reflect on his high school days. “
I initially thought that AFJROTC was going to be the hardest class ever when I joined freshman year, but it was fun, and I instantly connected with others.” At the 2025 Santiago High School AFJROTC Military Ball, he earned both the Tuskegee Airman and American Veterans’ Association awards. He stood out for his leadership and exemplified service. Nevertheless, leadership and discipline didn’t come naturally for him. He reflected on diligence, expressing how “you have to work for things. Life isn’t easy, but that’s okay. You just have to keep moving forward.” His biggest advice to incoming high schoolers is clear: commitment is everything. “Make sure that if you’re going to choose something, stick to it for all four years. If you join something and quit after a year, you’ll never know what you were truly capable of doing,” he says.
Finally, another senior from the Class of 2025 is taking a medical path built on sharp intellect and a passion for helping others. Michelle Quinonez is an aspiring healthcare professional pursuing a biology degree at the University of California, Irvine. Her small goals may shift, but her dream has always been the same: to be the first doctor in the family, and she’s getting closer every day. In her freshman year, she spoke at a TEDx event and was introduced to the Speech and Debate team by supportive peers. That moment was one of the highlights of her high school experience, opening the door to many more opportunities that came her way. But with every step forward came its challenges. She admits how “learning to balance everything” was the most challenging part of high school, especially in junior year.
Still, Michelle never lost sight of the things that mattered most. Reflecting on her high school journey, she shares, “Remember to cherish the relationships you have, those who are always there for you, even if they can’t fully understand it. You are allowed to make mistakes; you are allowed to have breaks. Just give it some time, and everything will work out in the end.”
To incoming freshmen with a bright future ahead of them, “make the most of what you can with high school. I truly believe that Santiago has numerous different opportunities where students can try and find their niche and flourish, whether it be a sport, a class, or a club, just to name a few. Challenge yourself! I made many new friends and memories, making high school that much more memorable! You just have to take the first action. Bonne courage au lycée!”
As the Class of 2025 turns to the next chapter in their lives, students like Jaden, Albert, and Michelle remind us that high school is not just a phase to get over; it’s a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth. Finding confidence through the small moments, persevering in leadership, and challenging yourself is part of the experience! Being a high school student isn’t forever, so take chances, make mistakes, and make every moment count.
