‘It’s the start of a new journey’
Published 4:18 pm Saturday, June 7, 2014
Austin graduate Mark Mizrachi gives his speech during Austin’s commencement Friday night at Riverside Arena. Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com
The Austin High School class of 2014 started the next step of their journey Friday.
About 290 graduates received their diplomas Friday evening during the 138th Austin High School graduation ceremony at Riverside Arena.
Graduate Sela Fadness encouraged the 2014 class to find their future.
Austin commencement speaker Tori Grev addresses classmates Friday night at Riverside Arena. Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com
“As our time in high school is ending, I believe it’s the start of a new journey,” Fadness said.
Fadness was one of 12 student speakers who discussed their thoughts and feelings about graduation and their experiences at AHS. Jacob Kempen was particularly proud of his high school career.
“I am truly proud to be a part of Austin High School class of 2014,” Kempen said.
He encouraged students to go out and see what the world has to offer.
Graduates who didn’t speak during commencement were excited too. Nina Cardel enjoyed her years at Austin High School, but was ready to graduate.
“It’s been good,” Cardel said. “It was a good ride, it’s been real.”
She said she felt good about the education she received, and although she is unsure what she wants to major in, her plans include going to school for her generals.
For Paige Sunderman, graduation was a bittersweet night.
“[School] was very long, but there’s definitely not enough time to say all your goodbyes to everybody,” Sunderman said.
She plans to attend Riverland Community College for two years to finish her generals and then pursue a degree in nursing.
But while some students may not have decided where they want to go, others have big plans.
Autumn Laury enjoyed her time at Austin High School, but she was ready to get out and see what the world has to offer.
“Austin High School’s a quality place to go,” Laury said.
She said she will miss some things, like the friendships she made with classmates.
She plans to attend Mankato State College for Spanish education. She hopes to teach English abroad for a few years and come back to be a high school Spanish teacher. Although she’s excited to see the world, she said she wants to stay near Austin as well.
During her commencement address, AHS Principal Katie Baskin was excited to see her students stepping into a new chapter of their lives. She said it didn’t matter where they went, whether college, the military or employment, their lives were changing.
“Your joy will come through making your own choices,” Baskin said. “Know where you started, where you are, and where you want to be.”
She encouraged the students to do their best in life, and be what they choose to be.
“Dare to be something more,” Baskin said.
Abigail Prizler says the Pledge of Allegiance with the rest of her class during AHS commencement Friday night at Riverside Arena. Eric Johnson/photodesk@austindailyherald.com
