by KIM HILSENBECK
The simple act of moving a tassel from right to left signifies something much more complex – it moves graduating seniors from one phase of life to the next.
For 385 seniors at Lehman High, 42 at Live Oak Academy and 424 at Hays High, graduation is an emotional time; tears of joy are bittersweet as they leave family and friends to head off to a new and unknown future.
Vincent Pesina, 19, a Hays High graduate from Buda, said he felt good – and relieved – that it was over. He plans to attend Blinn College in Brenham and then hopes to get into medical school to be a cardiologist – inspired by real life events.
“My grandma was saved by a cardiologist,” Pesina said.
For Taylor Cross, 18, the evening left her feeling excited and overwhelmed. This Buda resident will be heading to school in San Francisco to major in fashion merchandizing in hopes of a career as a fashion buyer.
Kyle resident Luis Gomez, 18, is less sure of his plans but still feeling good about graduating. What will he do now?
“I don’t know, to be honest,” said Gomez.
The smile on his face showed relief and happiness.
Lauren Rodriguez, 18, is more certain about her future. She said she plans to begin at ACC and transfer to Texas State University to become a registered nurse.
No matter the plans, stay or leave, attend college or get a job, seniors share an important commonality – the pride of their accomplishment and hope for the future.
