Through the years at Meridian, students enroll, learn, graduate, and move on. But every year, some who have left return to share their stories. That day is known as Meridian Alumni Day.
Students and faculty eagerly look forward to Alumni Day, an annual tradition that brings the community together. Alumni return to reminisce, reconnect with former teachers, and share their experiences transitioning from high school to college. For current students preparing for the same journey and receiving their IB diploma, these stories provide valuable insights.
During the event, groups of alumni visit various classes to answer students’ questions on a wide range of topics, most of which focus on their college experiences.
Princess Iroabuchi, a freshman at the University of North Texas at Denton and a Meridian student since first grade, shared her thoughts on returning to campus for Alumni Day. “Everything is nostalgic in a sense. Seeing everything and even driving here felt nostalgic. I took the same route I usually took,” she said.
Iroabuchi also reflected on her time at Meridian. “There were moments I would say were very positive, for example, the community.” She fondly recalled shared experiences with her classmates, such as the senior lock-in and senior trip, which made her time at Meridian memorable. Her high school experience also prepared her for college, particularly in academics. “I’ve gotten used to writing full-length paragraphs, so I’ve been able to do it in college,” she explained, referencing the history IAs and essays she wrote at Meridian. Additionally, she credited Ms. Vain for teaching her skills in art that have carried over into her college art classes.
Alumni Day is also an emotional experience for faculty, who have watched students grow and move on over the years. Mrs. MacFarland, the college readiness teacher who has been with Meridian since its inception, shared why the event is close to her heart. “What I appreciate is that not only do you get to see last year’s grads, but you get to see students over the years,” she remarked. From a college readiness perspective, she values how alumni share their experiences and transitions, offering guidance to current students.
Alumni Day remains a treasured tradition at Meridian, bringing together past and present members of the school community and highlighting the lifelong connections formed here.