Booker High grads share advice as they prepare for their next steps

Commencement speaker Annabelle Truong had an optimistic appraisal of the moment to share during the graduation ceremony for Booker High School on May 18 at Robarts Arena.

“I may be a bit biased, but 2024 has a really nice ring to it,” she said. “It flows off the tongue really smoothly, it is an even number, and it also is a leap year, lucky to those of you born on the 29th; 2020 may be a year we all want to forget, but four holds so much more promise.”

She wasn't the only one with advice and inspiration to share as students headed into a new phase of life. 

Jaylen Benony spoke about how success is defined by those one surrounds themselves with. 

“I made many friends that motivated me to be better not only as a writer, but as a person, and that's when I finally realized the people in your circle, determine your mindset,” he said. 

Jackson Carney explained how a teacher helped restore his self-confidence when she asked why he had stopped dressing elaborately for school.

“It took a second to grasp the idea that my presence could be something she would look forward to," he said. "As I heard those words, I knew I was making a difference in daring to present myself against norms and barriers.”

Graduate Blaze Rivera left feeling the impact of graduation. 

"It feels really good. I feel accomplished. That's the best way to put it," he said.