The Crow's Nest

Last Words From Our Graduates

Here a few thoughts some of our seniors had when asked about graduating in two weeks.

"I feel anxious and very excited to graduate. I really want a positive change and college is something different and I can't wait," said Dayanara Galan.

"In one way I am glad I get to leave this island. Port Richmond as well. However, more than leaving the location, it leaving the people, teachers, and students, that would make me lonesome and sad. Things can be replaced. People can't," said Valedictorian Sarah Zainelabdin.

"I have been thinking about graduation for most of senior year. it is going to be the saddest and happiest day ever. The people I have met at Port Richmond High School are amazing. The experiences I've been through are crazy and I wouldn't trade them for anything," said Jake Zukowski-Garrie.

"I a, excited to start a new chapter in my life. Port Richmond provided great memories and taught me both hard work and discipline," said senior president Adam Kostandy.

"I remember walking into this school the first time and feeling at home. I am glad that my feeling came true and I am glad I came here," said Salutatorian Priyanka Chanbrasegaran.

I have mixed feeling for graduating. I kind of want to leave to go on to college, but I don't want to leave the friendships I made throughout the four years I've attended PRHS," said Alberto Alonso.

"Unlike most normal people, I am filled with DESPAIR! I don't want to leave high school," said Alice Lee.

"There have been good days and there have been bad days. I will miss all the true friends I have made as well as cherish all the memories," said Daniel Simeni.

"Nothing compares to the genuine bonds you make during your four years in high schools. These new friendships and bonds you create in high school will probably impact and stay with you the rest of your life," said Jerine George.  

"Honestly high school has been crazy. It's been stressful, it's been fun, it's been real, and now in my final days of high school, I have to get ready for the real world. I don't want to grow up just yet, but I guess I have to eventually," said Emmanuel Olotu.

"Graduation and leaving Port Richmond gives me a bittersweet feeling. I've been more than happy to have met the people I've made friends with, all the things teachers have taught me, and what I've experienced. I'll never forget Port Richmond High School and the Class of 2014," said Tierra Incle.

"I will miss playing high school football the most. The team was like my second family," said Michael Bonomo.

"Graduating high school feels amazing, but scary. I'm happy it's over and adulthood is beginning, but I also wish I could go back to being a child and playing," said Francia DeLeon.

"In these years of high school, I have been defeated and I have risen. I am very thankful to my teachers. I will look back to my memories at this school and smile," said Maeda Zaidi.

"I have no feelings about the impending graduation. Graduation is very trivial and more symbolic or implicit than anything. My parents are very excited," said Anthony Arroyo.

"Ultimately, a place is only as good as the people there, and I believe that makes Port Richmond one of the best places on Staten Island. I feel confident moving forward to face life's challenges," said Irteza Syed.

"The memories and friendships created in the pat four years are truly irreplaceable and remain with me for a lifetime. I am so grateful for all of my teachers in the honors program who have cared for me, and have properly prepared me for this next step in my life. I will miss my teachers dearly such as Mr. Luongo, who I've had for all four years, Mr. DeFazio, who I had for three years, Ms. Goldstein, who I had for two years, and lastly Mr. Trant, who although I've only had for one year, over the one year, has been one of the best English teachers I've ever had. I truly appreciate my teachers and they are a huge part of why I will miss Port Richmond so much. four years ago, as I stepped into Port Richmond for the first times as a freshman, I never imagines the years would fly by so quickly! My advice for the younger students would definitely be to cherish your time and the people in this building, because before you know it, you'll be saying goodbye to it all," said Paige Cintron.

The Crow's Nest wishes the Class of 2014 the best in the next chapter in their lives. Remember: once a Raider, always a Raider!