With the second semester underway, Central’s seniors get closer and closer to that precious graduation day. Some seniors are preparing for their next chapter: college. Seniors spent the last few months applying to colleges and attending college fairs.

College is one of those experiences that can be greatly influential for anyone who attends. It can set a course for someone’s life and change people’s perspectives. Ms. Callie Capehart, our senior counselor, says, “College was a significant period of personal growth. I discovered who I was, identified my strengths, and continuously learned from new experiences and new people.” College can help people find who they
are and discover what they really want to do. Many of the seniors have already made their decisions about where they want to go. One of our senior cheerleaders has said her plan is “…to attend Lee University and study marketing with a focus on sports.” Another senior planned on “Going to Chattanooga State and get a degree in nursing.” Some seniors have college plans, and some don’t have a clear picture, which is common among seniors. Mr. Brandon Russell, our business pathway teacher, explained, “My path was more winding and practical than the ‘traditional’ college route I imagined in high school.”

As the seniors prepare to depart from this school, they and some teachers provide lots of advice. The main advice some seniors give is to focus on your work and grades. One senior has even said, “Take advantage of your education, do good in school, and use class time to your advantage so you don’t have to take work home.” Mr. Kevin Parsons, one of the teachers who has seen countless senior classes pass by, has provided his great advice: “The next four to six years determine the following thirty to forty. Put in the work. Learn how to be independent so that your happiness never depends on others.” Keep up with your grades and your work, and keep that momentum throughout the next chapters of your life, especially at college, trade school, or anywhere else.