Observing that senior council traditions are fundamental parts of many institutions, the senior council is planning on implementing two traditions of its own. Recognizing the necessity and the benefits of a senior class gift, the senior council first decided to initiate a tradition where the senior class leaves a gift to express gratitude to the school. In addition, in order to allow seniors to have a chance to make memories before graduating, the senior council also started planning for an overnight senior trip.
“The purpose of this gift is to leave something behind as a legacy of our class,” said Sophia Chi (12), senior class president. “We want that gift to remind future students about the Class of 2015. As far as I know, no graduating class has ever left a gift to the school. We want to start this tradition because we recognize the values and the benefits of gift giving in other schools and universities.”
In the past, individuals, rather than entire classes, have given contributions and donations. For example, Seunghyup Woo, Class of ‘13, donated a flat-screen television for announcements. After consulting with the rest of the HSSC executive members, the senior council plans to either plant a tree in the garden or start a scholarship program for those who have upheld the TIGERS values while at SIS.
“I love those kinds of ideas, because they have a nicer community feel to them,” said Sean Syverson, HSSC adviser. “It’s nice to know that this school means something to them and that it’s not just a stepping-stone to college. It doesn’t matter what the gift is; it is a nice reminder that this was the place where you grew up, made friends, had lasting memories and made connections with teachers who helped drive you to be passionate about things.”
Furthermore, the senior council started organizing an overnight senior trip, instead of a one-day trip like previous years. According to a survey released by the senior council on Oct. 27, the majority of seniors wanted the trip to be around spring break, while more seniors voted for Daemyung Resort Vivaldi Park as the venue for the trip over Yongpyong Lepovill or Oak Valley Resort. The senior council is now drafting a proposal to be submitted to the administration for approval.
“Through this trip, we hope all the seniors will be able to make lasting memories together before graduation,” said Elizabeth Huh (12), senior council treasurer. “I myself would also like to make memories with my peers, especially those whom I haven’t had the opportunity become particularly close to during my 13 years at SIS. I really look forward to bonding and getting closer with friends, while making memories that we can cherish and take away to college.”