By Briana Donaldson
After the last graduation caps are tossed in the air the seniors from Pen Argyl Area High School begin to transition into their own pathways. Some may choose to go straight into the workforce, others may want to explore higher education opportunities, or maybe the military caught someone’s attention. Either way these pathways were made to accomplish each graduate’s personal goals.
In the next few years after graduation those pursuing the path of college will have to start acclimating to new settings and more advanced work. Many will notice that having the role of more independence opens up new pathways to further opportunities.
President of National Honor society, four-year cross country, and track and field runner Ella Mamana will be attending Cornell University.Mamana’s love for science and math came from a science engineering summer camp at Lehigh University she attended. This encouraged her to take the path of Materials Science and engineering.
Attending Salisbury University is Katie Wilgus. Wilgus participated in track for four years as a thrower. Wilgus plans to major in finance to become a financial analyst.
“I decided to follow this path, because I like to work with numbers, and how different businesses manage their money,” she said.
Sports has been an integral part of life for many students at PAHS. Some student athletes aren’t ready for that path to end. Their dedication to practice, games, traveling, and more will be continued at the college level. This will be an opportunity for seniors to learn inside and outside of the classroom.
Blayke Lacey, senior, plans to attend Eastern University after graduation. Lacey made the decision to continue his wrestling career with the Eagles. He plans to get his degree in Business Marketing AI.
“What encouraged me is my goal of wrestling in college so I chose to go to college over the workforce,” said Lacey.
Similarly four year volleyball senior Jasmine Holland wants to pursue her education at Cedar Crest College. Holland will be playing Volleyball for Cedar Crest and will balance getting her degree in early childhood education. Holland expressed that she is grateful and excited for this upcoming opportunity.
“I want to make a positive impact by creating a supportive and engaging learning environment in the classroom,” said Holland.
Cayden Vishnesky also chose to take the path of college and playing a sport. Vishnesky will be attending ESU after high school participating in baseball and getting his degree in Exercise Science.
“The coaching staff is very prestigious and they have a lot of experience,” explained Vishneksy.
Photo Courtesy of Cayden Vishnesky
Cayden Vishnesky stands on mount pitching for the PAHS Green Knights varsity baseball team.
Some students after high school are ready to complete some of their goals right away.
Those entering a trade school will deal with more hands-on training whether it’s in construction, healthcare, tech, and more.
Trade school can help students complete specific skills at a faster pace. Similarly, those joining the workforce will have more employment experience, financial freedom, and opportunities. The workforce will help to avoid any student debt and will continue to look for well trained students.
Altorice Spearman-Frazier will be attending a trade school to eventually become a carpenter or electrician. Since Frazier was younger he’s always enjoyed more hands-on activities. Frazier was always found alongside his godfather helping him with little projects in different places.
He leaves PAHS saying, “Always focus on yourself, get up, and do what will make you the most successful in the future.”
Jacob Hockman is planning to join the union as a sprinkler fitter at the local 669. Hockman was a part of the golf team for all four years and the tennis team for two. He qualified for the golf league tournament twice and varsity lettered all four years at PAHS.
While the options are plentiful, one thing is certain, these Green Knights have accomplished a great deal during their time at PAHS and have bright futures ahead.