We often get caught up in all the excitement of homecoming, picking out our outfit, doing our hair, participating in spirit week, but we forget the true meaning of “Homecoming.” Homecoming is more than simply going to the game of the year, it’s about welcoming back alumni who previously attended. We should stop for a second and consider what high school was like for those who previously attended Hastings instead of making this all about us. Let’s travel back in time and see a day in the life of others

A regular day back then was pretty much the same as it is now. As soon as they arrived at school, they would meet up with their friends in the courtyard and from there they would make their way to the cafeteria to enjoy breakfast together. Once the bell rung to go to class they would each go their separate ways and meet up later on that day to hangout. Gregorio Serrano, a student from the class of 2013, describes everyday at Hastings as unpredictable, never knowing what to expect, but one thing all former Hastings students could agree on was to make sure to be on time to class.

High school holds a special place in the hearts of alumni. It impacts you immensely without realizing it. Dora Alicia Frausto, class of 2009, recalls that during her freshman year, Hurricane Katrina broke out as a result students from Louisiana had to come to Houston to finish their education. This led to many conflicts among them including a wild fight among the students resulting in many injuries such as a broken nose. Frausto commented “ No one was safe to the point a teacher was injured trying to stop the fight”. However, all the tension between the students soon dissolved and brought them together as a community to aid each other in times of need. 

Former students are grateful for many amazing memories that they will cherish forever. Serrano reminisces fondly on May Day, a day where all juniors get a day off school to enjoy activities involving a variety of sports, games, music, and food. Frausto is grateful for meeting her best friend Gabriela Rodriguez. Although, at the beginning they were enemies they soon became friends. She has now been friends with her for over a decade. Cynthia Cedillo is grateful to her high school experience for helping her differentiate true friends from bad influences. Also, for helping her balance her school work from her personal life.

When asked about what advice they would give current and future students, Serrano said “Enjoy these next years, they of course feel like a long time when you hear you are stuck there for four years, but those four years pass as fast as a blinking eye..and you honestly miss everyday of it starting when you walk out of the Berry Center… and don’t skip class I did a lot of that in my days back then…you regret it and honestly it’s a roadblock on your way to graduating..I’m all for fun, but one day missed from class could honestly be a day that could have changed your life, so enjoy every second your in that building with your Fighting Bears Family!!”