Somonauk High School conducted its second annual Senior Institute on April 24.

Seniors and teachers attended sessions covering a wide variety of topics significant in helping ensure a safe and purposeful transition to the next phase of the students" lives, whether that is college, the workplace or the military.

The senior class was treated to a morning reception of coffee, water, doughnuts, fruit and bagels, all donated by merchants and community members. After checking in, seniors received a black professional portfolio along with their schedule for the day.

The morning got started with a keynote session by author and musician Harlan Cohen.

"The speaker was incredible," said senior James Lorang.

Cohen spoke about life after high school including relationships, alcohol use and exposure to more diverse populations. A panel of recent Somonauk High graduates spoke with the seniors about their own experiences covering topics such as time management and finding your own path through young adult life.

The Senior Institute hosted six breakout sessions; personal financial information presented by the Illinois Assistance Commission, personal safety from the Sycamore Police Department, making college count hosted by North Central College, relationship and social information from Northern Illinois University, stress relief and maintaining mental health from the Ben Gordon Center and the impact of decisions by Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Senior Janine Ciesielczyk said, "It allowed us to learn about how to properly finance college. We also learned how to make connections with people that we can depend on."

Students chose which breakout sessions they would attend in order to match their schedule with their needs.

A small committee of senior class parents worked to raise money for lunch and raffles for every senior student. All food and raffle prizes were donated by local businesses and community members.

"My favorite part of Senior Institute was the way we were treated," said senior Danny Lorenzini. "I felt good walking in the school that day with all of the food and activities we could participate in. All the teachers and guest speakers treated us with total respect. I felt like an actual young adult."