As graduation approaches for UHS seniors, Rileigh and I are featuring another senior Miranda Rigdon. Miranda looks back on her time with pride, gratitude, and sadness as she prepares for the next chapter of her life.
Miranda plans to attend East Central Community College, where she will major in elementary education before finishing her bachelor's degree at Mississippi State University. Her passion for teaching was inspired by her time in the Education Prep Program, taught by Mrs. Donna Kay Sizemore. She was also influenced by a special teacher, Mrs. Griffin; she reveals, “Being in her class made me feel so welcomed and allowed me to learn to be myself and to love school. She is part of the reason I decided to major in elementary education.” Throughout her high school years, Miranda was an active member of the Pride of Union Marching Band and Ed Prep, where she earned a teaching scholarship. However, it was her time in the band that she is most proud of, especially because of the two back-to-back state championships they won. Winning a state title also stands out as one of Miranda’s favorite high school memories: “That feeling of winning after working so hard for it, and the memories I made that day, will be something that I will never forget.” As she prepares to leave Union High School, Miranda admits to feeling a mix of emotions. “I am definitely sad about leaving,” she said. “Union has made me love going to school every day. I will also miss the band and the family environment that I was surrounded by. Union will forever have a special place in my heart.” Looking ahead, she carries with her a valuable lesson that high school has taught her—perseverance. “Even when it gets hard, keep pushing because it will be worth it in the end,” she said. “This is something that I will use for the rest of my life.” For younger students following in her footsteps, Miranda offers a simple yet powerful piece of advice: “Always be yourself and never apologize for it.”
