On March 23, 2023, after school Wednesday seemed ordinary for most Jesuit students. However, that ordinary day was the annual Ranger Rally event. Every year, once accepted into Jesuit Dallas, 8th graders from middle schools across the DFW metroplex are invited to come to campus. The 8th graders would meet our school’s enthusiastic faculty members and students. This year’s Ranger Rally proved to be a tremendous success as the 8th graders are able to envision and experience what it means to be like Jesuit students.
QUICK RECAP
At around 6 PM, 8th graders came pouring in for the Ranger Rally. The 8th graders were soon greeted by the enthusiastic Jesuit students who made a tunnel for the guests to walk through.
Sebastian Suwanda ‘26 noted that “greeting and hyping the 8th graders as they entered our campus was one of his favorite experiences.”
Following the 8th graders’ entry into the Walsh Gym, students were officially welcomed by Principal Tom Garrison and Freshman Counselor Tim Host. Then, the 8th graders and Jesuit students joined in saying the Prayer for Generosity. Finally, everyone in the gym was dismissed for dinner.
Made by Thomas Cuisine and BBQ Smokies, dinner was served for all 8th graders, Jesuit students, and teachers. Excited to try some barbecue, many 8th graders were seen carrying trays of BBQ to their tables. Throughout the dinner, 8th graders not only enjoyed their delicious meals but also had the opportunity to meet many Jesuit students. Conversations ranged from topics like current sports news to Jesuit student life.
Daniel Mansur ‘24 recalled how “it was great to see 8th graders excited to come to Jesuit due to a myriad of summer travel opportunities, especially the Rome trip.”
For the remainder of the evening, 8th graders had free time to just explore or enjoy the campus. Some talked with other Jesuit students, answered trivia questions about Jesuit grads in college and professional sports, and played chess. Other things that the 8th graders participated in were playing basketball with their peers and exploring a variety of sports like rowing.
Notably, many 8th graders decided to watch the exciting Michigan State vs. K-State game along with Jesuit students and teachers.
FACULTY THOUGHTS
Mrs. Ochs: “Personally, I believe that this year’s Ranger Rally was the best one ever hosted. Of course, this would not have happened without the selfless participation of 70+ Jesuit students. Throughout the rally, I was happy to see how our students greeted the new 8th graders, making them feel welcomed and relaxed.”
Mrs. Richard: “I was very glad that the 8th graders are enthusiastic in enjoying the Jesuit experience. During the event, I was at the sports trivia table and many 8th graders came over. So, I had boxes of giveaways like Jesuit t-shirts and caps. If an 8th grader got a question right, then he would earn one of the giveaway prizes. Throughout the event, many of the 8th graders learned a lot of facts about Jesuit graduates that they previously did not know.”
Mr. Goll: “In a way, I believed that Ranger Rally was a perfect window for the 8th graders to see what we value here as a Jesuit community. Also, the incoming Class of 2027’s chance to understand the difference between simply knowing about Jesuit through the interview process versus experiencing brotherhood and community here was truly meaningful.”
STUDENT THOUGHTS
Kevin Babu ‘23 (Managing Editor and Representative of The Roundup): “I thought that the Ranger Rally was a great way to engage with the incoming freshmen while allowing them to explore their passions before they even officially entered high school.”
Christian Argenbright ‘24 (Medical Society): The Medical Society, throughout the time at Ranger Rally, got to see many promising future members that will bring new life to the club.”
Daniel Mansur ‘24 (LifePak): “During the Ranger Rally, I represented LifePak and MUN. Throughout the evening, I went around and not only talked with the 8th graders about my represented clubs and other things like academics and summer travel.”
Sebastian Suwanda ‘26 (Campus Ministry): “I thought this year’s Ranger Rally was fun! The Class of 2027 members definitely enjoyed it from start to finish. Also, the MSU vs. K-State game was very exciting!”
CONCLUSION
This year’s Ranger Rally was truly an incredible experience for the Class of 2027 and the Jesuit community. Whether it was barbecue or basketball, the evening provided an atmosphere of brotherly camaraderie. We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2027 as Jesuit students in August 2023.
Stay tuned to The Roundup for more school and community news!
