Mercedes Myrick

Mercedes Myrick

By Danae Carter, The Whetstone

Sophomore Mercedes Myrick said her roommates are her New Year’s family.

“One of my roommates has a birthday on the holiday so we celebrate that together and turn it into a big party for both occasions,” she said.

Many students are gearing up for celebrations and resolutions to bring in the New Year. Students also said they are excited to participate in their yearly family traditions.

“For New Year’s, me and all my cousins come together and have a little get together,” said freshman Domingo Johnson. “We buy sparkling cider, snacks, and just wait for the New Year to come.”

Freshman Maria Gonzales says her family approach’s New Year’s a little different than most.

“Everyone in our household has to get rid of two old things that they don’t use anymore, to make room for something new,” she said. “This is a tradition that my parents have done, and our ancestors.”

Junior Tyrik Thomas’ family whips up a big meal.

“On New Year’s Eve, my family cooks pig’s feet and chitlins to bring in the New Year,” he said. “We also wait by the TV all day for the ball to drop in New York City.”

Senior Adeola James said his family typically goes to church on New Year’s Eve.

“Afterwards, we then split up and go to parties,” he said.

Senior Alayssa Thomas is getting used to celebrating the New Year.

“I am from Guyana, so my family did not do much for New Year’s,” she said. “Since I have been in America we have adopted a tradition of watching the ball drop in New York on TV. Now we try to just spend time with as much family as possible.”

Senior D’Ashia Walker said she believes in New Year’s Eve luck.

“We all go over to my grandmother’s house and everyone brings a good luck dish to eat that’ll start the New Year off right,” she said. “One of our dishes include black-eyed peas to give us a lot of luck throughout the year.”