The Emotions and Experiences of 2021 High School Graduates Leaving School

Every year, the transition from high school to the next steps in life marks a significant milestone in the journey of a young adult. For the class of 2021, this year was particularly unique, owing to the disruptions caused by the global pandemic. This article explores the emotions and experiences of these graduates as they bid farewell to high school and embark on new adventures.

Feeling Lucky: A Perspective from a 2021 Graduate

As someone who graduated in 2021, I feel incredibly fortunate. The opportunity to graduate in the year 2021 was a privilege, as it meant avoiding the challenges faced by the class of 2020. I understand that not all students had the same experience, and my colleagues in 2020 missed out on many of the traditional rites of passage. Despite the challenges, my sense of accomplishment and blessing remains intact. I am deeply grateful for the experience and the lessons learned during high school.

Freedom from Pressure and Constraints

Graduating from high school brings a significant sense of relief from the emotional pressure of achieving top scores and meeting academic expectations. This pressure can have a profound impact on students, pushing them to seek admission to prestigious colleges and universities. With the end of school studies, students find a newfound sense of freedom. However, it is essential to acknowledge that the current education system may not always be ideal, leading to stress and potentially stifling creativity and personal growth.

With the removal of this pressure, students now have the opportunity to follow their passions and pursue their interests. Social media and digital platforms can be powerful tools for learning and self-improvement. The experience of scoring top marks or getting a good job is not as important as personal development and the ability to engage in meaningful conversations with parents.

Nervousness and Excitement

Nearly all my classmates express a mix of nervousness and excitement about the next step in their lives. One of my friends, Joyce Rodriguez, is a senior who is both excited and a bit sad about leaving high school. Even though most of her time recently has been spent online, she has been looking forward to the face-to-face interactions that have been missing. Her return to in-person learning has made everyone else feel better, including me; it has brightened the day of my friend.

Challenges of Entering the Workforce

While the academic transition is a relief, the transition into the workforce presents its own set of challenges. Many graduates find themselves rushed into the job market at an early age, resulting in overwhelming academic and job applications. This, coupled with the limitations of social interactions due to lockdowns, can create a stressful and screen-heavy environment. Despite these challenges, the overall experience remains positive, as many young adults find a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their new roles.

From Business School to University: A Different Path

Others, like myself, have taken a different path. I attended a business school in Denmark in the summer of 2018 and dropped out of high school in 2019. My journey has taken me to various cities in Denmark, including Aarhus and Silkeborg. This year, I would have graduated, but I made the decision to drop out. Despite the regret of this decision, I am now free to live my life on my own terms. Living at home with my parents in my mid-to-late twenties is not a comfortable situation, and I regret not being able to make my own choices and live independently.

The pandemic has affected everyone, with lockdowns and new primary school reforms adding to the stress. Yet, the experiences of these graduates and their unique journeys highlight the resilience and adaptability of young adults as they navigate the challenges of the modern world.

Keywords: high school graduates, emotions, graduation experiences