Since freshman year, Senior Class Secretary Kelsey Gutierrez has loved the idea of painting her parking spot, and in August of 2017, after several months of conversation, it all became reality. Thanks to Gutierrez, Principal Dee Palmore and the rest of the senior class officers, seniors are able to display their personalities in a brand new way. This annual project had been happening in schools across the nation for years, and with Rider becoming a part the action, students are thrilled to personalize their spots.

Considering the amount of time and effort that goes into these parking spots, many advise that the design is carefully chosen to fit your personality.

“My parking spot is of pusheen aka my spirit animal,” Senior class president Anna Au said. “She’s an adorable lazy cat that I can 100% relate to.

Au isn’t the only one who’s parking spot reflects their high school story, as many have deep sentimental value to the students.  For example, Senior Class Reporter Abigail Hill made her parking space look like a big firework displaying the text “So close yet so far out.”

“The saying comes from a little motel in Austin, Texas and that’s where I want to live one day,” she said, “I like the saying because it makes me think of a hippie in the 60s and 70s.”

Hill explained it also has a double meaning, since her parking spot is far from the doors.  Still, as she pointed out it depicts her personality.

While several students found inspiration from life experiences, not everyone looked there, simply finding something that represented them.  

“I found the design for my spot on pinterest, and found colors that I felt better reflected me,” Gutierrez said. “Don’t try to make it too intricate, because that only makes it harder.”

As students worked on their masterpieces, the late summer Texas heat beat down on the paint covered concrete.

“For the seniors next year they should definitely be ready to spend at least five hours out in the sun, so for sure bring some sunblock,” Au said. “But also make sure you know and have what you need, because it takes a lot. The officers also encourage to share your supplies, because sharing can help everyone save.

“For juniors who want to paint their spots next year, try to make your spot as personalized as possible, and make sure you fully plan it out before you start the painting,” Hill said.

“Just have fun,” Au said. “It’s your senior year!”