FERRIDAY — Though their heels sank into the soggy ground as they marched across the football field, the 2008 graduating class of Ferriday High School stood tall as they formally finished their high school education Thursday.

Parents, friends and family cheered, set off air horns and released balloons as their student’s name was announced as a graduate, and students smiled, cried and raised their arms in victory after receiving their diplomas.

After years of education, the students have finally seen their hard work come to fruition, Salutatorian David Turner said.

“We have made it,” Turner said. “We are going to get a diploma.”

Valedictorian Chirag Patel said, though they have made this milestone, it is not time to rest.

“We must now set goals for ourselves and accept new and existing challenges,” Patel said.

It was because of the education the students received at Ferriday High that they would be able to face what is ahead, Turner said.

“I believe Ferriday High School has prepared you to finish life’s mission,” Turner said.

Though it was the students being recognized Thursday night, teachers, administrators and parents should also be recognized, Patel said.

“It was the parents who were the guiding force behind us throughout the years,” Patel said. “I want to thank you for never giving up on us.”

For Zan’Ron Williams, who plans to attend Louisiana Tech University and major in business, graduating was a hard feeling to describe.

“It feel electrifying,” Williams said.

Graduate Eric White, whose plans include attending Grambling State University and majoring in sports health before ultimately becoming a coach, graduation gave him a whole new drive.

“I feel on top of the world,” White said. “Being here makes me want to find a way to inspire the rest of the kids here to follow through and graduate.”

The graduating class contained 88 students, 16 of who were honors graduates.