Before They Go: Yahaira Torres

Senior year is a strange concept. It’s the year responsibility seeps in and never fails to bring its good friend: panic. DHS has so many remarkable students, especially in the Class of 2021. This series of articles will be dedicated to recognizing and sharing the journey of this year's senior class.

Senior Yahaira Torres is the first to be recognized in this series. Yahaira has participated in many of the school clubs and sports throughout her time. She is a Dedham High School cheerleader, and an actress for the Performing Arts Company (PAC). Yahaira has made a big impact on the DHS community and the DHS community has impacted her as well.

Throughout her time with the PAC, Yahaira has become much more comfortable with the people around her. She learned how to express herself and did so in a safe space. Yahaira made many friends that lasted far beyond the walls of DHS. After her experience with the PAC, she recommends that every student at least try to join a club while in high school. From her experience, she can attest to the fact that you can make many friends and memories.

As a cheerleader, Yahaira was able to enjoy being active and stay healthy. She was a base for the cheer team and enjoyed her time. She made many memories and got to spend a lot of time with her teammates.

One thing Yahaira has no regrets about is the classes she took. Although she would have loved to have more room in her schedule for other electives, Yahaira felt as though she took the best classes that would benefit her. She wished the school had offered a class that focused on the proper techniques behind singing as well as a musical theatre class, but she still enjoyed many of the musical based classes such as chorus. She made a shout out to Ms. Vega for always being so nice and positive towards all her students and wanted to make sure she got some recognition.

Yahaira is still looking into what her future will be like. She is considering college but isn’t limiting herself just yet. If she does choose a college, she is heavily leaning towards a musical theatre major. This goes to show her passion and love for being on stage. She says, “Although it may sound silly coming from a senior in high school, I really want to have a music career. I've always wanted to make music and perform so I'm going to work my hardest to get there.”

Many of Yahaira’s high school memories revolve around the support and love the DHS community can show. She has numerous memories of people having her back when she was upset or supporting her when she needed it. She was able to be herself around the groups of people who made her feel warmth and comfort. Although Yahaira is in her final year of DHS, she has many good memories and experiences to take with her as she leaves.

Any senior who wishes to be featured in this series should email Theresa Stronach at theresa.stronach@student.dedham.k12.ma.us