High school is often regarded as a place of self discovery and the development of meaningful friendships among adolescents. This has also applied to alumni Mark Hinson, who graduated from Central in 1977.

“[My experience at Central] was really good. I enjoyed it and still have friends that I made in school that I see and get together with,” Hinson revealed.

Today, he works as a commercial real estate appraiser for Hamilton County. He’s been a part of the real estate industry for 32 years now, and he was introduced to the field through a job position offered from family friend.

“[My profession] sort of chose me. I had known Claude Ramsey since I was young, and at the time he was the assessor of property. He was talking to my dad and asked what I was doing at the time (I was the manager of a video store),” Hinson explained.

When Hinson’s father asked him if he wanted to work for Ramsey, Hinson agreed, marking the beginning of his real estate venture.

After graduating from Central, Hinson pursued a forestry major at the University of Tennessee. Unfortunately, he did not earn his degree.

“I took a break from school and never made it back. I will always regret not finishing,” Hinson conceded.

Hinson’s favorite subject in school was geometry. He enjoyed using formulas and theories to find the dimensions of various shapes.

“I liked working out the size and capacity of the shapes and [understanding] how it all worked together,” Hinson divulged.

Hinson made several amazing memories during his time spent at Central, but his most memorable moment was the day he graduated.

“I remember being proud that I made it. [I was also] a little apprehensive about stepping out into the world not knowing what would happen next, but also excited to find out,” Mark revealed.

Hinson believes that students should enjoy their time in high school while they are still there.

“Enjoy your time at Central,” Hinson advised, “You don’t realize it, but high school will be some of your best times and you will make some of your best friends and memories. You can also have fun while making good grades at the same time.”