WHITTIER – With graduation day fast approaching, Whittier Union’s college-bound seniors celebrated the end of their K-12 education journeys with festive ceremonies observing College Signing Day, held during the first week of May at each comprehensive high school.

Seniors celebrated their commitment to continuing their education at four-year universities, community colleges, the military or vocational schools, inspiring crowds of underclassmen to work toward similar goals. More than 100 students from Whittier, California and La Serna high schools also attended UCLA’s National College Signing Day on May 1, hosted by former first lady Michelle Obama.

“I am extremely excited to go to college,” said Cal High senior Eduardo Cordova, a first-generation college student who is bound for UC San Diego, where he will major in marine biology.

Cordova was among the Condor seniors who posed for pictures in front of a “Leaving the Nest” poster with a commencement cap-wearing Cal Condor, decorated college pennants representing their future schools, talked to community college representatives and posed for a group picture on the quad.

“Attending Cal High benefited me greatly because my teachers and counselors encouraged me to challenge myself with AP classes and provided a college-going culture every day,” Cordova said.

Cheered on by classmates and teachers, Pioneer High Titans walked a red carpet carrying banners proclaiming their college choice, gathered for a ceremonial lighting of the Titan Torch, took a group picture and were treated to ice cream.

Santa Fe High students signed a poster proclaiming their intent to attend college and took photos with college banners.

During La Serna’s Acceptance Day, students wore college garb, filled out college pennants and received balloons in the color of their future school. Whittier High Cardinals gathered to sign a large “I’m Going to College” poster while declaring the college of their choice.

“It’s wonderful to see our exceptional seniors celebrating the next step of their lives, continuing their education equipped with the skills and preparation to succeed,” Superintendent Martin Plourde said. “We look forward to continuing our end-of-year celebrations and wishing our seniors continued luck in their future endeavors.”

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051419_WUHSD_COLLEGESIGNING: Whittier Union seniors celebrate going to college after they graduate during College Signing Day, which took place at each comprehensive high school during the first week of May.