On Feb. 6, the Class of 2025 embraced Cavalier spirit during their annual Grad Bash at Universal Orlando Resort. A cherished tradition for seniors at Gables, Grad Bash is an annual celebration where the upperclassmen spend two nights in Orlando, enjoying access to the Universal Orlando Resort’s parks. From exciting rides to unforgettable moments with friends, the night is filled with memories that will define their senior year and the legacy they leave behind at Gables.
The tradition remained strong as seniors gathered at the Gables campus at 4:30 a.m., filled with anticipation for the long-awaited adventure. After a long bus ride, they arrived at Islands of Adventure at 9:15 a.m., ready to dive into a world of thrilling rides, themed attractions and most importantly, unforgettable memories with friends.
The first day was nothing short of exciting for seniors. Students walked into Universal Islands of Adventure, eager to experience some of the park’s most iconic rides. Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure and the wild dinosaurs in Jurassic Park drew the largest crowds. Laughter and cheers filled the air as seniors navigated the park and created unforgettable memories.
“I think my favorite memory of Grad Bash was when we stood in those long lines, waiting for rides. Since we could not bring our phones onto the ride, we had to put them in lockers and the conversations we started were such great moments that I could never forget,” senior Gabriela Vega said.
Beyond thrilling rides, there was plenty of opportunities for seniors to unwind and enjoy quality time with friends. Grabbing quick snacks and exploring the park’s different themed areas allowed students to make the most of every moment.
To end their first day in Orlando, seniors returned to their hotels and shared boxes of pizza before getting ready for bed. Some students bonded with their teachers, playing Jenga with Mr. Nelson and dominoes with Ms. Suarez.
Seniors were ready at 8 a.m. to start the second day of Grad Bash, where they experienced Universal Studios theme park. Many rode the energetic Revenge of the Mummy ride, while others relaxed and enjoyed the park’s food and scenery with their friends. Whether seniors were being launched through the air at Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit or enjoying the light thrills of the Simpsons Ride, they hoped to be creating lasting memories of laughter and fun.
Whether bonds were made before the trip or during it, students appreciated Grad Bash the most they could while enjoying their time in Orlando. Each rollercoaster, heartfelt conversation and late-night game contributed to a celebration of their high school journey.
As seniors boarded the buses to return home, they reminisced on their experiences at Grad Bash. However, the journey home did not come without its surprises. At 5:30 p.m., as the buses departed Orlando, Bus Three unexpectedly broke down due to a blown tire and students were unable to return to Gables until 1:30 a.m. Despite the setback, the spirit of the seniors remained high. Students from the stalled bus received assistance from their classmates, exchanging stories and conversation while waiting for their new bus to arrive.
“One of the tires popped on Bus Three and they had to stay back. Bus One and Bus Two stayed with them for a little bit, but they ended up getting home really late, while most of us were already sleeping. It was crazy,” senior Luna Santiago said.
For the Class of 2025, Grad Bash was more than just a trip, it was an experience filled with friendship and deep appreciation for the memories created at Gables. With experiences like these, the senior class can carry the Cavalier Spirit along their journeys, cherishing these moments as they look toward the bright futures ahead of them.
“It was such a great ending to my senior year. I met people who I had not really hung out with before on the trip and I had such a great time with them. I really recommend this trip for every single senior. If you have the opportunity to go to Grad Bash, go to it,” senior Olivia Tejera said.
