Allyson Serafico's Valedictorian Address from Monte Vista High School

When you think about a graduation ceremony, it’s easy to picture caps and gowns, smiling faces, and seemingly never-ending tears of joy, falling from the eyes of proud family and friends. While all of that is in fact part of the ceremony, the latter being perhaps a little TOO prominent, there is still so, so much more.

For every cap and gown that walks across this stage, there is a different story. There is potential. There is success. And most of all, there is accomplishment.

Each of us sitting here today, are here to take our final steps as high school students and our first steps into our futures. The thought does sound scary, doesn’t it? Okay, maybe not as scary as Mr. Wilson, a week prior to AP exams… or even Mr. Sandoval or Mr. McCormick after grading a chapter test… But looking around, seeing all of these faces beaming at the sight of white and crimson here on the field, I wonder. What’s there to fear?

All of us have someone, somewhere to trust and count on. Who knows what will happen after you receive your diploma today? Maybe… those people? The ones that you really do trust and respect, are the ones holding embarrassing posters of you, or readily waiting with cans of silly string, itching to congratulate you on four years well done.

Actually, that’s probably just my family… but still. Who’s to say? These people coming here to celebrate all the hard work that you have done are here for a reason. Sitting here today allows each and every one of us Monarchs the chance to grow up, venture off, and truly make a difference in the world that’s waiting for us. You, my friends, decide what happens from here, and I sincerely wish all of us the best of luck.

Thank you to my family for never leaving my side, to my friends that made these past four years unforgettable, and to you, thanks for keeping me sane.

This is really it guys! Give it up for the class of 2012!