Becton’s annual Senior Commitment Day was held on May 1, 2025, celebrated on a beautiful spring day on the outdoor Becton patio, also known as Becton’s wellness oasis.
For most colleges, May 1 is the official deadline for students to confirm their enrollment or postsecondary commitments—whether to a college, one of the United States Armed Forces, or a trade school. As Becton’s Student Activities Coordinator, Ms. Jessica O’Driscoll, explains, this day is, above all, “a celebration for our seniors who have made a definitive decision regarding the next chapter of their lives.”
Planning for Becton’s Commitment Day brunch took a few weeks, with Ms. O’Driscoll, and Senior Advisors, Mrs. Kathryn Scalera and Mrs. Elisa Gatto, all contributing to making the event a success.
Seniors were called down during first period and were welcomed with a varied brunch spread, along with games of kan jam and cornhole set up across the lawn. The atmosphere was lively and vibrant, with attendees describing the event as “fun” and “relaxing,” and specifically noting that it was a great way to celebrate both their own and their friends’ commitments.
Many seniors spoke highly of the food offerings such as the sandwiches, bagels, cookies, lemonade and more catered by the Pomptonian Food Service. Liam Stigh, who has committed to the Fashion Institute of Technology, further added that, “The food was the highlight of my day, it was so good!”
Kristen Dearborn, who has committed to Ramapo College, shared that she appreciated how “it was a time to celebrate my achievements and future goals.”
Through a survey sent out by Ms. O’Driscoll, students found signs and small flags representing their particular college, branch or career. Everyone who filled out the survey was able to have their pictures taken with their college’s sign to commemorate their commitment choice.
Julia Bubendorf, who has committed to Montclair State University, appreciates the thoughtfulness and “generosity” on the teachers’ part. “I loved each little stand where everyone got to represent their colleges/trades/branch because it made everyone feel included no matter where you decided to go after high school,” Bubendorf explained.
As for the event itself, it was the beginning of the conclusion of the seniors’ time at Becton. Gianna Viso, who has committed to Montclair State University, notes that it “felt like a full circle moment seeing where all my peers would be spending the next chapter of their lives.”
This next chapter is one that involves many new experiences and friendships, and Becton’s seniors are eager to get started. Many mentioned looking forward to their summer plans and preparing for the first day at college. Kayla Torres, who has committed to Bergen Community College, says that she is most anticipating “making memories with all my friends before we all go our separate ways.”
Numerous seniors noted that they are ready to enjoy greater freedom and the independence to pursue new experiences. Noella Turla, committed to Rice University, sees college as “a great opportunity to find new friends and explore my new environment.” Gustavo Costa, who is committed to Stony Brook University, echoes this sentiment, adding that he is optimistic about having “new opportunities in a new place.”
Ms. O’Driscoll encourages seniors to embrace the new phase of life they are about to enter and wishes them luck, noting that “it will be the foundation of their future.”
