WWW.QNS.COM RIDGEWOOD TIMES JUNE 24, 2021 15
Dear members of the graduating
Class of 2021,
Congratulations on reaching
this incredible moment in your
lives and for working so hard to get
here.
In some ways, we envy you. You
have reached this monumental milestone
at an incredible time in our
city and country as we reopen and
recover. Out of a very dark period
in our history, the light is fi nally beginning
to shine for everyone — and
especially on you, as all kinds of new
opportunities await.
Things are fi nally getting back to
what we thought of as normal. Many
of you did get a chance to stride onto
a stage in a cap and gown to get your
diploma or degree, shake the principal’s
hand and wave to family and
friends in the crowd.
All around, social life is returning.
The advances of science and medicine
have allowed us to once again enjoy
each other’s company, to appreciate
special occasions and moments in our
lives together.
Now the future is yours, and what
a bright light that is ahead on the
road of life. You have so many other
special occasions and moments ahead,
so many other objectives to achieve.
How will you get there?
Those of you who just received
your college degree can make an immediate
impact to help improve our
city, state and country as you venture
out into the “real world” your parents
have always talked about.
All kinds of job opportunities are
at your disposal. Take advantage
of them. Find something you want
to do in a fi eld for which you are
passionate.
If that opportunity doesn’t present
itself right away, consider being a volunteer.
Take an internship! Nothing
is better than experiencing the world,
even in unpaid positions, until you
fi nd a paid position. Your creativity,
your skill set and your desire will
make the difference when hiring
begins.
For those of you heading to college
next year, get ready for a unique
time in your life. Enjoy each day!
Make friends and new connections.
Take advantage of every real world
opportunity to fi nd the career you
want to pursue.
Nothing is better in life than doing
what you love. If it’s something
you’re emotionally and intellectually
invested in, pursue it.
As for middle school students heading
into high school, the next four
years will be fi lled with new friends,
harder courses and test aft er test
aft er test. Welcome to the next level
of your academic career; take one day
at a time.
Study hard and work hard. The
path to success is very simple: Work
hard. Throw yourself into school
activities.
High school is full of all sorts of
aft erschool activities beyond sports.
Take part in them. Begin fi nding your
passion, join a club (or two), make
new friends and learn more about
the world around you.
Remember always the people who
have loved you and who have cared
about you to bring you to this point
in your life. A thank you to the wonderful
families who have helped their
children succeed. We’re sure you’re
bursting with pride.
Be hopeful for their future. They
will make you proud!
Thank you, teachers and professors,
for helping not just to mold your
students’ young minds, but also to
inspire them to be the best that they
can be. As an educator, it’s not merely
about passing on facts or assignments;
it’s about instilling enlightenment,
passion and dedication to your
students. You have helped them to
change the world for the better.
We congratulate you, graduates,
on your outstanding achievements.
Great challenges lie ahead. Pursue
them, be challenged by them and live
the life you dreamed.
Go, and do great things!
Sincerely,
Victoria Schneps
Joshua Schneps
Co-Publishers, Schneps Media
GRADUATION
A letter to 2021 graduates from our publishers
/WWW.QNS.COM
