As the days wind down until graduation, the class of 2018 collectively commemorated their journey throughout the past years. Keene State College’s senior class celebrated the “100 Nights Until Graduation” event on Jan. 25 at Scores Sports Bar and Grille in downtown Keene.
all photos by Colton McCracken / Senior Photographer
This year’s event was organized by the senior class President Alayna LaBaire, who did not respond to an interview request. Attendees bought wristbands prior to the evening which were required for entree into Scores.
Even though Scores was only welcoming a limited amount of senior students, that did not stop Paul Beling, senior physical education major, from celebrating.
“I know that there are only a certain amount of people allowed into Scores for the 100 nights celebration, but regardless, I’m looking forward to going out this weekend with my classmates,” he said.
It is essential to recognize and reflect on experiences because sometimes people are unaware of the moments they are creating, explained Leah Powell, a graduating safety major. “My favorite memories are things that I didn’t realize in the moment,” she added.
all photos by Colton McCracken / Senior Photographer
Powell also emphasized the importance of appreciating the experiences that have passed and the memories that are to be made in the next 100 days.
“College has flown by and with only 100 nights left it’s crunch time to…live in the moment. Life goes by so fast and you realize that as a senior in college,” she explained.
The event unites the senior class, allowing individuals to reflect on memories with their fellow classmates and celebrate together.
“Our class isn’t close as a whole so to celebrate together is amazing because we are all going through this together,” Powell said.
Jason Smith, an occupational health and safety major, reflected on his past moments as a KSC student as well.
“My favorite experience has definitely been playing on the soccer team here and I will certainly miss that the most,” he said.
Smith is excited to begin a new chapter in his life, but leaving KSC also makes him emotional.
all photos by Colton McCracken / Senior Photographer
“Knowing I’m graduating soon is definitely a bittersweet feeling … it’s hard to saying goodbye to friends but it’s nice having some really good memories to look back on,” he added.
Since graduation is seemingly sneaking up on the class of 2018, some seniors are surprised by it’s speedy approach.
It is exciting, but nerve-racking, for them to acknowledge the limited time they have left on campus.
“Having 100 nights left is definitely a weird feeling. I think I speak for most people when I say that having only 100 nights is kind of a scary thought. However, all good things come to an end,” Beling said.
As the year comes to a close and the seniors wave goodbye to the college lifestyle, they are simultaneously preparing for their lives after graduation.
“I’m going to eventually start a career in the education field, and hopefully coach sports. Directly after school I plan on enjoying some time to pursue some jobs where I could be outdoors primarily,” Beling said.
Powell is also starting off with a job that will help her gain experience and knowledge in her desired career field. “I plan to go for my masters in industrial hygiene and become a CSP [Certified Safety Professional]. My job lined up for after school is with the union and it is teaching construction workers safety.
My first class is CPR and First Aid. Baby steps,” she said.
This year’s graduation ceremony will be taking place Saturday, May 5 on the Fiske Quad.
Ashley Arnold can be contacted at aarnold@kscequinox.com
