By Maya Donchuanchom, Staff Writer
The 2025-26 school year is coming to a close! Each graduate has journeyed through four years of high school, leaving a unique mark on Moreau Catholic. As they prepare to move on to their next journeys to pursue what inspires them, three seniors have taken the time to reflect on their years here. They’ve put together their thoughts on how they have learned and grown, not only in the classroom, but also within themselves.
One theme seniors emphasize is the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone. Trying new hobbies, sports, and classes can seem daunting, but lead to a new set of adventures awaiting to be discovered.
Ayana Wilmot, a soon-to-be collegiate lacrosse athlete at California Lutheran University, shares, “Don’t be afraid to try new things and join clubs or activities that interest you, even if you don’t know anyone. High school is a great time to explore your passions and discover what you’re good at.
Wilmot has truly exemplified this statement through her exploration of sports throughout her years at Moreau Catholic. The volleyball, basketball, and lacrosse programs have all had the chance to harbor an athlete like Wilmot, who embraces her openness to the unknown.
Seniors also stress the value of building relationships with everyone surrounding them. Teachers and counselors are not just there to assign work or plan schedules, but to support students through the resources and systems they control.
Wilmot explains, “Make sure to get to know your teachers and counselors; they’re there to support you and can offer you guidance.”
By taking the time to connect with adults, they can be there to offer a great deal of help, especially during challenging moments that arise in the last few years of high school. Whether it be helpful advice or a shoulder to cry on, there will always be someone willing to cheer you on.
Chanelrae Mendoza is a senior who will be attending the University of San Francisco in hopes of becoming a nurse. She urges underclassmen to give their finest work and effort anytime they step into an environment. Opportunities will present themselves, it’s just a matter of setting yourself up to be successful. By becoming involved, building relationships, or offering your help, a plethora of doors will open.
Mendoza adds, “Do your best … and the opportunities will come.”
Additionally, seniors reflect on the pressures to fit in and meet expectations. Saanya Menon, an incoming freshman at Pepperdine University pursuing sports medicine, advises, “Don’t lose yourself in trying to satisfy everyone else.”
High school is not always easy, with ordeals in academic, sports, and especially social aspects of life. It’s important to surround yourself with people who support and cherish your presence for being yourself. Don’t shy away from expressing who you are and what you believe in.
Menon advises, “Enjoy every moment and don’t have any regrets because everything really does go by fast.”
Time moves fast the older you become. It’s essential to spend every moment with intent because there will be a time without the same friends and family that circle you right now. As the Class of 2026 nears the end of its time at Moreau, they are remembered as a class with passion, drive, and swag. We wish the best for each senior adventuring off into the next chapter of their lives! CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2026!
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