Every final is completed, the class rooms are deserted, the last box is squeezed into the car, the dorm room looks empty and sad, the goodbyes are said and done, the gas tank is full, and now it’s homeward bound.

Every summer, students must make the adjustment from living independently to moving home.

First on the things to do list of senior week is the clambake. Next is the Commencement Ball followed by Honors and Awards. Before you know it, it’s the big day: Graduation. A sea of caps and gowns, some people listening intently while some doze off until their name is called.

One hundred feet above the ocean, Onne van der Wal is standing on a metal beam spreader, which is thinner than the length of his feet. Looking down with his Canon EOS camera in hand, he looks to the dark blue water below. Merely feet in front of the sloop boat, Shaman, are a group of icebergs.

Q: What are you currently studying in college, and what do you plan on doing with

your degree once you graduate?

A: I’m studying Administration of Justice and Chemistry. My goal is to become a forensic scientist and specialize in DNA testing and rape kits.

NEWPORT – He begins with the “take two beers to tell” story of a nickname that has lasted a life time. Mansfield Lyon derived the nickname “Pro” back in the eighth grade. In junior high Lyon fell in love with the drums. Not having a drum at home he practiced on a wooden block as well as going once a week to practice at the high school.