High school is the place where teenagers find out who they are and make plans for their future. Most of them figure out where they will go next and the goals they have for themselves. Five seniors were interviewed about their plans and their dreams for after graduation. These five seniors offer a glimpse into the future of the Class of 2026, and give younger students advice as they advance through high school.
Calla Rudolph was the first to be interviewed. She is committed to Trinity University, a private school in San Antonio. She is going into her freshman year undecided about her major, but plans to explore options in social sciences.
“Central Heights has brought me out of my shell,” Rudolph said. “I have grown as a student and leader. I learned the importance of being involved and giving back to communities that support me.”
Her advice to the incoming freshman class is to be involved in everything that seems at least a little interesting to them. Clubs bring people together and create strong relationships.
Trapper Murdock was interviewed next. He plans to attend Texas State Technical College and pursue a degree in process operations, where he will manage natural gas refineries.
“Have fun while you can,” Murdock said. “It really does go by fast, so make every day count.”
Murdock advises the incoming freshman to make good grades. It is really easy to get behind, and can get difficult to catch back up, so stay on top of things.
Beau Bryant was then interviewed. He plans to attend Arkansas State University Mid South, and get a degree in business. With this degree, he aspires to appear on “Shark Tank” with an invention he creates. Bryant advises the younger classmen to be nice to everyone because it will take them a long way.
“Don’t take anything for granted,” Bryant said. “It will go by fast, and you will be a senior before you know it.”
Alex Quinonez was interviewed next. After he graduates, he will be staying in Nacogdoches and attending SFASU. He will also pursue a degree in business and wants to be an entrepreneur. With that degree, he wants to find a job that he loves and make good money. His advice to the incoming freshmen is to have a whole bunch of fun while in high school, and make every moment count.
“Do everything you can to have the most experience out of your high school journey,” Quinonez said. “Participate and make as many friends as you can. it will give you the best memories and experiences.”
Chris Perez was the last senior to be interviewed. He will be attending Carleton University all the way in Minnesota, and he will get a degree in chemical engineering. With that degree, he hopes to get a job in the processing, energy or pharmaceutical field. He would like the opportunity to craft medicine. His advice to the incoming freshman is to be yourself, and try to be the best version of yourself academically and personally.
“Be friendly with everyone around you and to make lasting and impactful connections,” Perez said. “I’m grateful for the time that I have spent in Central Heights, and I will be very sad when I leave. The people and teachers here taught me a lot about self reflection and character.”