By Caleb Youngblood, Public Relations Coordinator
October 7, 2026
I’m originally from Columbus, Mississippi, and I previously attended New Hope High School. My journey to MSMS has been a strange one. I didn’t learn about the school until my sophomore year, and even then, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to come. While I loved my old school, I knew I wasn’t being challenged enough. After talking with some of my friends from New Hope and my family, they encouraged me to apply. Thankfully, I worked up the courage to send in my application, and I was accepted.
My story doesn’t stop there, though. When I went to New Student Orientation in February, I was a bucket of nerves. Those nerves quickly went away once I started talking to my future classmates, and I became so excited about the idea of living with these people. That day, when I got in the car and my dad asked if I was sure about going, I said yes. Two years later, I can confidently say it is the best decision I’ve ever made.
My senior year I’m most excited about continuing to play soccer for MSMS, serving as Interact Club Vice President and helping plan fun community service events, and serving as Class Officer Liaison in our Presidential Cabinet. I’m also looking forward to continuing my research at Mississippi State University and starting a HOSA club at MSMS. Most of all, I’m excited to get to know and help all of the juniors as they adjust to life at MSMS.
MSMS is full of different opportunities and events, but if there’s one that has really stuck with me, it’s the International Culture Festival. I performed with Naach, a Desi dance group headed by Heer Patel that showcases Indian heritage through dance. That day, I got to experience and celebrate so many different cultures, including Taiwanese, African American, Indian, and Hispanic cultures. ICF was so much fun. Getting to dance with my friends and play games throughout the day is a memory I’ll never forget.
One of my favorite memories has to be prom. Although we had to arrive a little early to help set up, I had so much fun. I got to spend time with all my friends from throughout the year, dance, sing karaoke, and just have the time of my life. Other memories that stand out include late nights in the dorms, playing soccer with my friends, hanging out at the rocking chairs, and singing and dancing in the street with my friends.
Outside of the classroom, I try to stay involved in community service. I also enjoy writing, reading, hanging out with my friends, and baking.