CHS Decision Day

by: MaCayla Henderson

On Friday, May 1, the Class of 2026 celebrated Decision Day! Students proudly represented their future plans, whether that be university, the workforce, and for some, the military.

The event brought together seniors with a shared sense of excitement, as many look forward to independence, new experiences, and personal growth. Whether staying in-state or heading across the country, students expressed enthusiasm about exploring new environments and opportunities.

“I am most excited about figuring out what I want to do about my future,” said Tillford Thomas, who will attend the University of Georgia. “In high school, I put such an emphasis on music, but I know that’s not what I want to focus on. I am excited to branch out and try new things and expose myself to new fields that I might be interested in.”

Others are eager to pursue specific academic interests. Mimi Nguyen, who is attending Columbus State University, shared, “I look most forward to going in more depth with animation as well as creative writing. I feel like this workload at CHS drained my creativity, so I am very excited to go to CSU and major in all of that stuff.”

Several students emphasized their anticipation of independence. “I am most excited about being independent, making my choices, and having my freedom and meeting new people,” said Chloe Bullard, who will attend SCAD. Similarly, Laney Flournoy, attending Georgia College & State University, said she is “most excited for the independence that comes with college.”

New environments and experiences were also common themes. Lisa Uwadiae, who will attend Towson University, said she is “most excited for the new experiences that college life will bring.” Lilly Winchester, attending the University of Alabama, added that she is “most excited to meet a bunch of new people because I am going out-of-state.”

Some students highlighted specific aspects of college life they are looking forward to. “I am most excited for freedom and football games,” said Ansley Jankiewicz, who will attend Kennesaw State University. Cale Hett, who is attending Mercer University, shared, “I am really excited to explore the city and I am also majoring in political science, which I am also really excited for.”

Finally, Steven Mejia-Santiago, who will attend Columbus State University, summed up a common sentiment among the class: “Something that I am very much looking forward to in college is more freedom and a change in scenery.”

Congratulations and good luck to the class of 2026!