As students prepare for this year’s homecoming, seniors Rylan Davis and Jose Haro are reflecting on their past experiences and sharing what they’ve learned along the way.
For Davis, homecoming hasn’t always been the exciting event he once imagined. He admitted that previous years were disappointing. “I didn’t stay long, I was bored, and I didn’t like the music,” Davis said. As a freshman, he expected something much more lively and full of dancing.
Still, Davis is optimistic about his final one. “Yes, I’m ready because I think it’s going to be fun,” Davis said. His advice to younger students is honest but encouraging. “Maybe don’t go if you’re by yourself, and you’re not missing out because it can be lame, but really, just try to have fun.”
Haro, in contrast, has attended all four homecomings and describes them more positively. “It was chilly, and I’ve had fun attending them,” Haro said.
For him, the best part has always been the moments after the dance, when friends gather to share food and laugh late at night. “After homecoming is fun and you eat a lot of food,” he said. Haro also offered practical advice for first-timers. “Don’t eat the food at homecoming because it is usually just snacks. Get something to eat before or after,” Haro said.
He also warned freshmen not to stress about the theme. “Do not dress up for the theme because no one does it,” Haro said.
Both seniors agree that homecoming is less about decorations or music and more about the people you spend it with. Whether surrounded by friends or attending with a date, the memories are made with the people around you.
Now, as they prepare for their last homecoming, Davis is hopeful that his final dance will finally meet expectations, while Haro looks forward to spending the night hanging out with his girlfriend and close friends. They both have a similar perspective to homecoming, it may not be perfect, but it can still be a memorable part of your high school experience.