BGHS Graduation Brings High Hopes for Future, Reflection

It was a beautiful and sunny Sunday afternoon for the  class of 2012 graduation. 

The optimism before, during and after the ceremony was contagious.

As the 520 graduating seniors and their family and friends waited in line to enter the building before noon, emotions already were flowing.  

“I’m very excited,” said Kelly Kowal, a graduating senior headed to the University of Wisconsin at Platteville in the fall to study agricultural business. 

“What makes me a little emotional is how quickly the last four years flew by. It gives (you) perspective on how fast time really goes,” Kowal said.

Parents also weighed in on what the day meant to them.

“I’m just so proud and excited and happy to see this day arrive for my daughter,” said Michele Ramsey, whose daughter Amanda will attend Robert Morris College to study culinary arts on a full scholarship.

Others became sentimental about the rite of passage.

“It goes really quick. I remember when my son Jack was just a baby and I heard other moms talk about college checklists. Now that’s me,” said Kate Moran, mother of graduating senior Jack Moran.

“It really set in when I sent a baby picture of him in for the yearbook. That’s when I really started crying,” she said.

Once the ceremony began just after 1 p.m., speeches made by graduating seniors were inspirational and encouraging, as they looked back over their high school experiences.

“Adventures await us as we await the sequel that comes this fall. We did it; be great; go Bison!” Victoria Dumstorf said.

“Love your stage; (future careers such as) engineers, teachers and journalists all have their own stage. My advice is, love your stage,” said graduate Matthew Wilber.

Another student reflected on the questions that, when answered, would help he and his classmates determine who they would be in the future.

“The great thing about asking ‘why’ is the answers we will all come to. They will define who we are and who we will become,” Tyler Nelson said.

Principal Carol Burlinski commended the graduates on the fine example they set during their senior year.

“At the beginning of the school year, I challenged you to pave the way and lead by example, and I applaud you for taking that challenge,” Burlinski said. “I watched you, and I learned from you.”

When the ceremony had ended and diplomas were in hand, there were thoughts of what students were leaving behind, as well as what lies ahead.

“I’m sad it’s over, but I’m pumped and excited for all of us to start the next chapters of our lives,” Spencer Kaden said.

Is there a 2012 graduate in your family? on Buffalo Grove Patch!

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