Last words can have an impact.

How often does someone actually consider what those words will be?

A new Netflix documentary series “Famous Last Words” aims to give celebrities a chance to share their final sentiments. Producers promise not to air the interviewees’ oral legacy until after they die.

The first episode, an interview with environmental activist Jane Goodall, aired Oct. 3. In it, Goodall, who died Oct. 1, said, “You have it in your power to make a difference. Don’t give up. There is a future for you.”

The Netflix series of long-form interviews is based on a Danish program. Interviews are taped in private so secrecy is preserved till a show is aired.

We asked PNW students what their last words might be. Some followed Goodall’s thoughtful approach. 

“God bless the people that are still here after I leave,” said Emily Zrodlowski, a sophomore Psychology major. “Make sure that they are kept safe and protected too.” 

Lydia Aldubbein, junior Marketing & Business Management major, reflected a moment before offering advice:

“Do not overthink and live in the moment,” she said. 

Cooper Deabel, Hospitality and Tourism Management major, struggled to find the right words.

“It’s a tough thing to think about, especially when you’re around your 20’s,” he said. “I feel like it would be along the lines of something like…If I’m content with what I’ve accomplished, providing for people, and giving them that experience to succeed and be happy, I would be happy with moving on then.”

Dameon Haraminac, junior Accounting major, spoke with no regrets.

“Whether I did right or not, I took every battle life put in front of me, for myself and those close to me,” he said.

But not everyone was so serious.

Celine Parra, junior Computer Science major, welcomed the idea of eternal rest.

“Finally, it’s time to get a well-deserved sleep,” she said.

Junior Jacob Nick, a History Education major, went for the punchline:

“Can you give me a second,” he said. “I really want these to be funny.”

Daniel Sek, senior Criminal Justice major, wants to leave behind a mystery.

“There’s treasure buried in the lawn,” he said.

Aiden Conley, a sophomore Nursing major, combined serious thoughts with whimsy.

“Money’s not worth it,” he said. “Touch Grass.”

But Ana Montes, a junior Biology major, wanted to get the last word. 

“Bye,” she said, simply.