This week, Rileigh and I are featuring two more seniors. Both students participated in many things throughout their high school careers, and they are excited for the following years after high school.
As graduation approaches, Elizabeth Donald, a senior at Union High School, is preparing for the next chapter of her life with excitement and reflection. After leaving UHS, Elizabeth plans to attend East Central Community College, though she is still deciding on a major. While navigating college life, she also plans to work at El Bravo Mexican Grill to gain work experience. Looking back at her years at UHS, one of Elizabeth’s fondest memories is going to Chick-fil-A after a field trip. However, she does have some regrets, particularly not taking extra credit classes, and acknowledges that she could have made better decisions throughout high school. When asked to advise younger students, Elizabeth emphasized the importance of taking school seriously. She also highlighted how participating in Law and Public Safety was a valuable experience and the activity she is most proud of. A significant influence on her education was Mr. Steve, her law and Public Safety teacher who had the biggest impact on her personally and academically. She noted that the hardest part of high school was dealing with people, but despite the challenges, she is leaving with great happiness and no regrets. While she doesn’t have any immediate travel plans, Elizabeth is carrying an important life lesson from high school: “Never give up, even when it gets really hard.” She also recognizes how much she has grown over the years, becoming less introverted and more confident. As Elizabeth says goodbye to forward to the future with optimism and determination, ready to take on whatever comes next.
As graduation approaches, Lane Nelson is preparing for an exciting academic journey and a future career in veterinary medicine. Lane plans to attend East Central Community College before transferring to Mississippi State University, where he will pursue an engineering degree. His long-term goal is to continue his education at Mississippi State’s Veterinary School, ultimately becoming a veterinarian. Looking back on his time at Union High, Lane cherishes the field trips he took with his friends, which stand out as some of his favorite memories. However, he does have one regret—not expanding his knowledge of other career and technical education (CTE) classes. When asked what advice he would give younger students, he said, “Don’t worry about what others say about you.” Lane was an active member of FFA throughout high school, and he takes great pride in his involvement with the organization. One of the most impactful figures in his education was Mrs. Feasel, a teacher who made a lasting impression on both his academic and personal growth. For Lane, the hardest part of high school was balancing school work with activities outside of class. As he prepares to leave Union High, he describes his emotions as bittersweet—excited for the new opportunities ahead but aware that he will be leaving behind the routine he’s grown accustomed to. In the future, Lane hopes to travel to Mexico and Iceland, exploring new places and cultures. One of the most valuable lessons high school taught him is that “I will not always understand things the first time I learn them.” This realization has shaped his approach to learning and will serve him well in college and his future career. Over the years, Lane has grown into a more social person, a change he is proud of. And when it comes to cafeteria favorites, Mandarin chicken was always his top pick. As Lane steps into the next phase of his life, he carries with him the experiences, lessons, and friendships that have shaped his high school years, ready to take on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
