Sessions with Sydney is a weekly column by features editor Sydney Ray. For more installments of Sydney’s ideas, opinions and ramblings, check out the opinions page, and check back every Friday for a new issue.

Homecoming is a time when a sense of unity on campus is present as students bond through class activities. However, my homecoming experience at a large, public high school differed greatly from my years at FC.

At the school I attended freshman year, there was literally a mob of people in the stands. Thousands of attendees crowded around to watch as the all-star football team made passes, catches and touchdowns. The student section was so packed that it was only possible to squeeze in a seat if I got there late. Finding friends was a hour-long task.

At FC, there are a few hundred parents, teachers and students present at each game. The team, made up of Christian all-stars, prays before each game. The student section is a little crowded, but when I’m not there my presence is missed by friends.

At my old school, no one built floats. The homecoming ceremony consisted of the nominees riding in nice cars around the football field and long periods of piercing screaming as the winners are announced.

At FC, most of the student population is involved in the event in some way. From building the float to actually being dressed up and riding on it, nearly everyone takes part in the ceremony.

At my old school, the homecoming nominees are people who are on the football or cheer teams. They seemed to be defined by their big smiles along with flashy dresses and suits.

At FC, the homecoming nominees are people who have excellent character traits and are well-liked by everyone. The most defining feature I see displayed is the humble, modest attitude they display.

There is nothing “wrong” with my old high school; it has highly regarded academic and athletic programs. At the same time, it does not compare with my experiences here at all.

I am going to thoroughly enjoy homecoming tonight, knowing I am not just one in a sea of faces. Homecoming at FC is a wholesome, fun experience where students can enjoy the company of friends and family in a pleasant environment. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to change schools and will not let that chance to go waste.

For more information about homecoming, read the Oct. 6 article, Homecoming redefines Disneyland themes. For more Sessions with Sydney, read the Sept. 30 article, An introduction.