Editors’ Note: all images in this article were taken by Lily Saal (V)
With the Class of 2024 graduating on Thursday, May 30th, the time came to pass the torch on Senior Takeover Day, an exuberant celebration in which juniors dress up and take over the senior grass.
Apart from declaring juniors’ authority as the oldest kids on campus, the purpose of the senior takeover is to foster a much-needed sense of community and gradewide friendship.
In the weeks leading up to senior takeover, our grade seemed unable to agree on a theme, leaving many of us feeling dejected and divided. However, after weeks of planning and intense deliberation on a grade-wide group chat, we decided on a beach theme, featuring swimsuits, floral shirts and sunglasses. “When we were trying to decide on a theme, our grade felt pretty divided and tensions were high,” said Dara Silverman (Form V). “But on the day of the takeover, everyone seemed to get along, and I think it really brought our grade together.”
Many of us arrived at school early to prepare for the day, painting “2enior5” onto buildings and the quad, as well as setting up inflatable pools, spikeball nets and water balloon stations.
The day was filled with joy and laughter in a heartwarming display of community as juniors conquered the quad. Additionally, many teachers had their classes outside, allowing students, stressed out by finals, to enjoy the beautiful day.
“I’ve been at Fieldston since 6th grade, and I’ve never seen the class of 2025 actually ALL come together like this,” remarked Reanna Bilbao (Form V). “I’m really excited for senior year because I really want our grade to bond more, and I think the senior takeover encouraged others to feel that way as well.”
The festivities were halted by the surprise invasion of the Class of ‘24, now alumni, during upperclassman lunch, who attacked us with water guns and balloons of their own as their senior prank. This resulted in an intense battle that left us all, albeit absolutely soaked, with smiles on our faces.
Senior Takeover Day reminded us of just how special of a community Fieldston is, and how, even in the most difficult of times, we can trust each other to spread happiness and love. Noor Hassan (V) remarked, “You didn’t need to be close with the person next to you in order to dance and have fun… The idea that we’re all moving up together with such little time left made it feel a lot more special.”
Check out some highlights from Senior Takeover Day on our Instagram @thefieldstonnews!
