As the years of being a Crusader come to a close, the seniors look back fondly on the times that they have shared together. We have laughed, cried, celebrated state championships and danced the night away. Through it all, we have learned who we are and how important this community is. As a final goodbye, the seniors wished to share their words of wisdom to those who follow in their footsteps.

“Don’t procrastinate; don’t let little things bother you; be open minded; things go by fast so embrace every second of it; spend time with your family and grow relationships with people you love,” said Abbey Ruggeri.

“Enjoy every moment throughout high school because I always knew looking back on the tears would make me laugh, but I never knew looking back on the laughs would make me cry,” said MacKenzie Steckler.

“Be prepared to change in ways you didn’t think you would,” said Elizabeth Langdon.

“As you begin a new chapter in your life, don’t be afraid to be yourself and find others that bring out the best in you,” said Madison Schulz.

“My approach to life is always just don’t take yourself so seriously. And don’t take life so serious. It’s not that serious,” said Connor Flynn.

“You don’t have to be great to start, you have to start to be great. Always push yourself because no one else is going to do it for you,” said Will Faherty.

“Live like a plot twist,” said Keenan Bross.

“The friends you meet in high school are the friends you will keep forever so focus on choosing the right friends,” said Raquel Rodriquez.

“I always think of Another Cinderella Story: never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game,” said Jenna Wilmes.

“Earn senior privilege, hug your friends and absolutely go get that cookie ice cream sandwich at the cafe,” said Alex Cook.

“If you’re an athlete, your grades are just as important as your sport. It’s important to keep your grades up so you don’t let your coaches or teammates down,” said Jack Stoll.

“Never let anyone know that you have gum,” said Carissa Schaefer.

“Don’t let anyone ruin your senior year; make it last and have fun because it flies by,” said Samantha Hall.

“Don’t be afraid to accept competition and challenges. No matter the result, they will only prepare you for your future,” said Grant Jansen.

“Enjoy these four years as much as you can — they will be over before you know it,” said Megan Schellert.

“As I am starting all of my ‘lasts’ I regret taking things for granted. My friends, family and all those who I may not see in the fall. I wish I would have spent more time with the people in my class before I have to leave them all. Some words of advice are this: don’t forget to take a step back and realize what’s happening in front of you because one day you’ll miss it,” said Cali Bracken.

Every high school student will face different challenges and experience greatness in their time here but it’s a million times better if you make the most of it. Don’t let one bad day define who you are and what you can do. Reach out for support when you need it or be the one supporting others. There are limitless possibilities to what each of us can do. Once a Crusader, always a Crusader. From the class of 2016, goodbye and good luck, St. Dominic.