Many students, when they enter Proctor Jr./Sr. High School, believe time is on their side. However, in the blink of an eye, senior year is upon them. It all begins to make sense why teachers have always asked students, ‘What do you plan on doing after high school?’ 

The question was something many students, including me, pushed off. 

Seniors are finally seeing how little time they have until the “real world” begins for them. Whether it’s college, a trade, or working, having a plan is great and can help shape your future. 

Personally, I’m going to register for my electrical schooling in July. I plan to work under an apprentice while I complete my schooling over the next few years. This will allow me to get better knowledge and certification so I’m prepared when the time comes to go off on my own. 

Emily Burns who attends Stafford, plans on taking a large step and continuing her medical schooling towards becoming a doctor.  Emily Burns has been at Stafford following the Health Careers track.

Jarrett Patch plans on following in his dad’s footsteps and becoming an electrician while working for Patch Electric. 

Matthew Grover doesn’t plan to stay local in the long run. He’s going to go to the Vermont Police Academy up here to become a sheriff, but plans on heading down to Boston and fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming a K-9 officer for the Sheriff’s Department.

Christopher Reed, who attends Stafford, plans on sticking with culinary where he hopes one day to manage a kitchen staff. Christopher has been in the Culinary Arts program for the last few years at Stafford. 

Lauren Palmer, who attends Stafford, plans on joining local law enforcement after college; working for Vermont Fish and Wildlife as a game warden. Lauren has been in the Criminal Justice/Public Safety program at Stafford. 

Mitchell Knowles plans on becoming a physical therapist and staying in New England. 

Kaden Austin plans on studying aviation and becoming a commercial airline pilot and is looking forward to flying all over the world. 

Xavier Coltey plans on heading over to Keene State and then, eventually, into the military. 

Others are still figuring out their paths. 

Regardless of whether students plan on going to school, the workforce, or the military, everyone has the opportunity to change the world.

Congratulations to everyone who is graduating this year; hard work truly does pay off.