Every generation has a defining moment. From the Vietnam War to 9/11, there is always an event, often a tragedy, that affects a generation of people. For us, the COVID-19 pandemic is this moment, or at least, one of them.

But it doesn’t have to be. Our generation will always be looked at as the “COVID kids,” but we learned a few things from COVID, too. What do we have that generations before us never did?

Though it doesn’t always seem like it, we have gained a new perspective and appreciation for social interaction. We seem to be able to roll with the punches of life now, at least, more. Throughout middle and high school, the graduating class of 2024 always lived with a threat on the horizon. A global pandemic, nuclear war, the ongoing climate crisis, or gun violence. Pioneer seniors lived with threats on the local horizons, like the effects of the Oxford shooting, or the Flint water crisis. Each senior who graduates this year has confronted a threat in their life, maybe COVID, or maybe something more personal, and come through it.

Though we still have to live with constant threats, I have more confidence in our generation to make a change, and be able to take these issues in stride. After all, just three years ago we were in the midst of a global pandemic — and now we’re all planning bright futures!

Are we ever going to be fully prepared though? No one could have predicted COVID, especially not how widespread and serious it became. I think there’s a difference between being prepared and being capable. We may not be prepared for whatever life throws at us, on a global or personal scale. We can’t ever predict the future. But I do believe that we are capable of handling it. We are capable of solving our own problems — from relationships, to pandemics, to algebra. Our generation has the courage and the capability to make sure that we survive and change.

The senåior class crosses the stage on June 6, and I can’t help but think of those who will not get to cross with them. Seniors who have passed due to COVID, mental health crisis, or school shootings. The victims of the Sandy Hook shooting should have graduated this year. If you are graduating this year, we have the responsibility to have these people live within us, within our actions, our memories. We may be the COVID generation, but there is so much more that defines us.

Remember those who can’t walk the stage this year, and remember how much you faced to get there yourself. COVID is waning now (knock on wood), and I think we are ready to keep moving. Just don’t forget where we came from.