The hallways of Marist High School usually feel like a chaotic mess of backpacks and loud talking, but lately there is a weird vibe in the air. The seniors are wearing their college hoodies, the countdowns are written on every whiteboard and the “senioritis” is definitely real. While the Class of 2026 is busy planning their graduation parties, a different group of students is feeling the pressure: the younger siblings they’re leaving behind.
For many underclassmen having a big brother or sister at school is like having a built-in safety net. They give rides, reveal which teachers are the “cool” ones, and most importantly are a familiar face. Now, the best friend who’s always been there is about to be packed up and moved into their very own dorm room.
It’s not just about the routine of getting to school. For freshmen and sophomores, seeing a sibling in the halls provides a sense of security. Whether it’s a quick “dap-up” between periods or someone to sit with when friends have a different lunch period, that connection makes a big school feel a lot smaller.
“I knew it was inevitable, but it definitely is hard,” says junior Abby Parker, whose older sister, Sarah, is graduating this May.
“I’ve gone to school with my sister my entire life since we’re only 13 months apart. We’re together all the time. We have the same friends and play the same sports. If you find one of us, the other one’s not that far away,” she says.
The sadness isn’t just happening at school; it’s happening at home, too. The realization that there will soon be an empty seat at the dinner table is starting to sink in for many families. Some students worry about who they will talk to once their sibling moves away.
The seniors are feeling the shift, as well. As the days count down, the time spent with family becomes more important.
“I think we’ve gotten a lot closer, but it’s also a little bit scary cause I am going away soon,” says senior Nicole Vazquez.
Of course, underclassmen are also extremely proud. They’ve watched their siblings pull all-nighters for AP exams, cry over college applications, and then finally get those acceptance letters. That pride, however, comes with a side of “What do I do now?”
While the seniors are looking forward to their next big chapter, the younger siblings are realizing they have to navigate the rest of high school without their “person” by their side. Next year, the parking lot will have new drivers and the lockers will have new names, but for the siblings staying behind, the halls will definitely feel emptier.
Advice for the Seniors: Don’t forget to text younger siblings back. They’re going to miss their big brothers and sisters more than they’re willing to admit.
