Union High School is in the middle of a very busy second semester. While many activities are coming up, the one people are looking forward to most is graduation. UHS has 66 seniors in the Class of 2025, and graduation is scheduled for May 15 on the school’s football field. Many people in the community are excited to see what the new generation has to offer to the world, so Kallie and I asked the class of 2025 some simple questions. Over the course of the next few months, our column will feature two or three seniors each week.
Braden Herrington is one of the seniors at UHS. After graduation, Braden plans to work offshore in Texas for around 15 years. He then wants to move back home and open his own business. Braden participated in football, FFA, and Law and Public Safety during his high school years. Because of the skills he learned through UHS, Braden feels prepared to enter the world and is ready to begin his life: “I have a lot of joy in knowing that I’m leaving and will be able to make a lot of money in the future.” Braden adds that one of his favorite high school memories is watching others graduate. Braden encourages younger students to “keep an open mind” because high school “gets easier as you progress.” When asked who made the greatest impact on his life, Braden responded by saying, “Mrs. Reynolds always made coming to class fun for me and made me want to come to school.” Due to the skills Braden received through his high school career, he feels confident that he will grow into a successful adult.
Mary Clara Sessums plans to attend East Central Community College and major in elementary education. She then hopes to achieve a bachelor's degree from Mississippi State University. Mary played the clarinet in the Pride of Union band for eight years and participated in HOSA. Mary Clara comments on her activities: “I really enjoyed Band. I got to meet some of my closest friends through the program, while also learning valuable lessons. I also really loved HOSA. I liked learning skills that I can apply, like emergency care and making a bed properly, while having fun.” Mary wants to thank Mrs. Hannah Smith. Mary says, “Hannah Smith has made one of the biggest impacts on me personally. She always gave me advice whenever I needed it or whenever I needed to hear it. She also gave me some wisdom when it came to my major.” The advice Mary gives to younger students regards trying. Even though high school is difficult, she encourages students to try their best on everything. Mary Clara Sessums will leave high school with lessons, skills, and memories that will remain forever. She describes that leaving the routine, comfort, and relationships of Union High School is “very bittersweet.” Even though Mary feels a little sad, she is excited to start a new chapter in her life.
