Finals are just around the corner, and many Bloomington High School South seniors are getting ready to graduate early. The second trimester ends on Valentine’s Day, and 65 early graduates are ready for a longer break between now and when college starts in late August, but saying goodbye to friends is hard. 

Senior Brianna Santiago said, “I am very excited to graduate early, but it is a little bittersweet since all my friends will still be in school.” 

Though there is a sense of bittersweetness in leaving high school earlier than everyone else, it can be beneficial for students. With more time before college begins, students can find a job and raise money for their savings. Additionally, some students may already have all the credits they need by the end of the second trimester, so unless they want to take electives, they could be spending their time doing other things that are valuable to them. 

Santiago continued, “I chose to graduate early since I had already completed all of the credits that I needed for my diploma and didn’t see a need to stay and take a bunch of elective classes. I plan on working while I graduate to save money for college and relax since I won’t have to worry about schoolwork.”

Early graduates have been working hard for four years, and relaxation is important for the students to take a break from school. 

Senior Lake Butiste said, “I’m feeling excited to take some time off before I head to nursing school. I am excited to have time for myself to reset before I go to college. I am feeling hopeful for my next chapter.”