As the class of 2026’s chapter soon closes, so does that moment to celebrate graduation with friends before they all split up to pursue their futures. While everyone wishes to get together and honor their hard work for the past four years, some do it differently. Whether partying, traveling, or just enjoying a nice dinner, the CO’26 wants to make sure they end their final year in high school with their own personal bang.
“Once summer starts, I’ll be going on a celebratory cruise to the Bahamas. Some of my extended family is gonna fly over from Puerto Rico, and we’re gonna hang out for a week or so on the cruise and here in Miami. I’m pretty excited, because it’s been months since I went on a trip with them, and I finally get to relax after all my finals and classes are done.” – Matthew Mercado, senior
“For my graduation party, I want to be surrounded by my closest friends and family. Since I’m going to the University of Florida, my whole backyard is going to be decorated with gator merch. It’s just going to be a nice little dinner party for everyone to enjoy themselves, and for us to celebrate my graduation.” – Juanjose Pazmino, senior
“I’ll be celebrating with my family and friends at my grandma’s house since she has a pretty big place—it’s easy to throw parties there, and spend lots of time [with one another]. I’m only gonna invite my main friend group—nothing too big or overwhelming—so that the party is still enjoyable for me and everyone else.” – Jaslene Gomez, senior
“I’m actually not completely sure myself, but I know something my best friend and I are thinking of [is] a combined grad party. We’ve been super close since we were two, and our families love each other, so we thought this would be a great way to make the day 10 times more special! We’re planning to invite our closest family friends and split the venue [so] the decorations get their own spotlight. I’m super excited for it, [and] if it all works out, it’ll definitely be memorable!” – Sneha Mathews, senior
“For my graduation ‘party,’ my parents decided to rent an Airbnb in Fort Lauderdale for almost a week-long vacation. We invited many of my family members over so they could also see how I progressed and to congratulate me. I wanted to involve family as it’s good for memories, and so when I look back, I’ll see how supported I was.” – Sierra St. Surin, senior
“Honestly, [I won’t be] doing a graduation [party], as I’m really busy with work, but if I were to have one, it’ll be simple either outside or at my house with my close friends. I love for things to remain meaningful with people who truly matter in my life, rather than randomly inviting people just because I talked to them once.” – Jocelyn Roldan, senior
