This month, Tri-City News asked high school valedictorians in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody to describe what it's like to graduate in the second year of the COVID-19 pandemic — and without an official ceremony.
Here's what Bernice Atienza of Terry Fox Secondary wrote:
"I still can’t wrap my head around how rapidly our lives have changed.
"Many of my peers are ready for this year to finish, and yes, I do feel the same way.
"But the end to our 2020 school year didn’t feel official for me, and that makes it more difficult to accept how close my high school career is coming to an end.
"Admittedly, being a part of the second batch of pandemic graduates fills me with gratitude.
"This year was full of challenges and disappointment, though the grad class of 2021 managed to adapt to everything we faced.
"We continued to find unique ways to enjoy our last year together, despite our senior events getting cancelled.
"It’s exciting to know that as we cross the stage at our commencement, we will be a significant part of history, and I wish my fellow graduates the best of luck!"
