May 1st, also known as Decision Day, marks the day high school seniors from across the nation are required to officially commit to the university they plan to attend.
On Thursday, May 1st, Prince George’s County Public Schools celebrated PGCPS students in their annual College and Career Decision Day celebration at Bowie Baysox Stadium, where schools across the county brought together their graduating seniors to celebrate their post graduation plans such as college, military enlistment, trades, or jobs.
The day was packed with eager students, who came wearing their college or career t-shirts, hoodies, or other memorabilia. Along the schedule was performances from Maryland universities such as Bowie State University and Morgan University as well as high schools like Charles Herbert Flowers High School – who danced, singed, and created a lively ambiance for students. Speakers like the PGCPS Student Member of Board Jamal Jongo were also in attendance, addressing the graduating seniors with a warm congratulations.
Apart from the exciting program, different schools and organizations lined the stadium entrance with informative booths, interactive activities, and photo booths. Schools like The University of Maryland, Bowie State University and Prince George’s Community College gave out stickers, pens, water bottles, bracelets, and other gear throughout the event. Alongside local universities, the U.S Army was also in attendance talking to students curious about joining military enforcement as well as several trades that provided interactive experiences for students. Several companies like Chick Fil A, Five Below, and Wawa also held job interviews for students interested jumping straight into the workforce.
As seniors prepare to depart, many of them are reflecting on what this moment means to them. Mckenzie Hayes is a graduating senior and member of ERHS’s Peer Forward, an organization that is lead by student ambassadors who encourage students to pursue a higher education by providing resources. For Mckenzie, she found her favorite part of the trip being “the tables they had at the event for careers and colleges.” It was also exciting for her to be surrounded by students across the county.. “It felt great to hang out with my friends and see people who are going to the same college as me” she emphasizes. Mckenzie notes that as a graduating senior, its not only important for her to celebrate her achievements, but to also continue to learn from events that diversify the endless amount of post-graduation plans. “I was able to try things I never thought I would, like welding and talking to firefighters about what they do.”As for her future plans, Mckenzie plans to go to college at Delaware State University where she will major in biological sciences and minor in psychology.
While students are often celebrated for their achievements, guidance counselors also play a key role behind the scenes — writing recommendation letters, sharing resources, and supporting students along the way.
Ms. Ramsey, one of the two guidance counselors for seniors, attended the trip alongside ERHS staff. She expressed what College Decisions Day means for her as a counselor, emphasizing that “this is a significant day for school counselors because it marks the culmination of months (or years) of guidance” and the “support provided to students during the college application process.”
Reflecting on the moment, she added,“Many students received full scholarships to continue their education…” She notes, “ I couldn’t be prouder of each and every one of my students as their efforts have paid off.” Ms. Ramsey is certain of the future for her students, no matter what they pursue in the future.“ “Even if they are not attending college they have a plan moving forward.”
As seniors prepare to leave ERHS, the day serves as both a celebration and a send off recognizing their diverse paths and support that helped them get there.
