What a ride: Born after 9/11, graduating during the pandemic
By Molly Boothroyd • Guest Columnist | Who would have thought the year 2020 could be so negative, life-changing but also filled with so much joy?
I have patiently waited my turn for the many celebratory Pisgah High School senior traditions. Wearing a red cap and gown as my fellow seniors walk down the halls to loud cheering in our previous elementary and middle school. Hugging our teachers and giving high fives to younger students telling them to “work hard and graduate!” The senior picnic celebration after the group senior 2020 class photo. Spending one last day together eating and hanging out before heading off in different directions.
The event I was looking forward to the most was College Signing Day. Seniors going onto their chosen college sign a commitment paper in front of the entire school. Instead, my College Signing Day was the COVID-19 way. Social Media pictures of me jumping up in the driveway at my house with balloons with East Tennessee State colors and wearing my college T-shirt. I chose to create my own joy for that moment.
Being social and an extrovert, I really was excited for prom. And yes, I had already bought my dress, trying to be positive and hopeful for lifted COVID restrictions. What did help ease the pain was the fun of a “fake prom.” A friend threw a backyard prom with a great dinner, hanging out with music, changing out of quarantine clothes and making a different memory.
Athletes who had their spring sports canceled were honored during a stadium lights night of students driving cars, honking horns and holding up homemade signs.
My college orientation was canceled, so everything has been online. All of America can relate to that. I have had a couple of meetings through Zoom with ETSU faculty and staff, to make sure I’m on the right track.
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I’ve tried not to be negative through this tough time. I am trying to keep my chin up and just enjoy the little things. I chose my outlook on things even when things did not go according to the plan.
I enjoyed spending more time with my family before I go off to college. And, when my family drives me insane, I can go outside in our beautiful mountains to take a walk.
The class of 2020 will always have a unique bond. Born right after 9/11 and graduating during a pandemic. I’m so thankful that I was a student at Pisgah High School, grateful that I had the best teachers who provided a great educational experience and taught me life skills.
As Pisgah alumni always say, “Once a black bear always a black bear!” Congrats to the class of 2020!
(Molly Boothroyd will attend ETSU in the fall, in whatever form those classes are held.)
