On June 3, South’s class of 2026 graduated in blue and white; their caps with tassels turned to the left side flew up in the air, colliding with confetti.
This emotional moment marked the beginning of a new chapter. Jack Jarvis ’26, who’s going to Michigan State and majoring in psychology to become a therapist, started his chapter with a cigar.
“My life has kind of been planned out, so it’s not a big deal to me, but I understand why this is such a monumental thing for other people,” Jarvis said. “I’m happy; it’s all smiles, honestly, but I’m more excited for the cigar. I’m looking towards the future.”
For Rosie Brower ’26, her time at South and graduation came quicker than expected, but she is excited for her next chapter at Moore College of Art & Design in Philadelphia to study animation.
“It’s just so exciting,” Brower said. “It [graduation] didn’t even set in until now. I’ve made so many friends, people I’m definitely going to know for the rest of my life.”
Siggie Schwartz ’26’s next chapter will take place at Georgia Institute of Technology, where she plans to major in aerospace engineering with a focus on nuclear thermal propulsion. Even though she’s ready to move on, she will miss performing in the orchestra.
“I’m ready to leave and take the next step. I want to make a good start,” Schwartz said. “I wouldn’t say I’m nostalgic, but I’ll miss a lot of orchestra class for sure.”
But this isn’t just a sentimental moment for the seniors. For all the graduates’ parents, watching their child grow up holds great significance. Blanchy Kaminski, mother of graduate Anthony Kaminski, who’s headed to the University of Michigan, is emotional but proud.
“It’s a milestone for him. He found a passion; he was in the musical, so many activities and clubs,” Kaminski said. “As a mom, you are happy to see this achievement, but also sad.”
At every graduation, the choir, band and orchestra perform for the crowd, and it becomes an opportunity for reflection and a glimpse at what’s to come. Sophia Carozza ’27 is grateful to be playing for her senior friends.
“I’m happy to be playing for my favorite people, and I get to contribute to their final moments as seniors,” Carozza said. “On the other hand, next year this is going to be me, and this is the last time I have to play at graduation. It makes me excited and nervous for the future.”
The class of 2027 is now moving on to their senior year, soon to wear the blue gowns and toss their caps, too.
“Next year, I’ll definitely cry. I’ll be very happy [based on] what I’ve seen from my past friends who graduated,” Carozza said. “It’s a bittersweet moment to move on and leave four years behind.”
