Although Hannah Waldrup considers Benton Academy a small school, she said the lessons and friendships she developed there are some of the most major impacts in her young life.
From her dedication to her studies to her commitment with volunteerism, the 18-year-old senior will certainly leave a lasting impression as she graduates later this year.
“I hope the rest of the students at BA will make the most of their high school experience,” she said. “This whole experience teaches you think for when you become an adult. You learn so much here beyond the classroom.”
Waldrup, of Vaughan, joined the BA family when she was only three years old. And “family” is the perfect word she would use to describe the local academy.
“I have really enjoyed growing up with the same people since I was three years old,” Waldrup said. “You build friendships that will last here.”
Waldrup is involved in several extracurricular activities, including serving as president of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She is also a member of the Math and Science Club, Student Council, National Honor Society, yearbook staff and Show Choir. She is also an avid runner on the track team.
“Being involved in a variety of activities and groups has prepared me for when I become an adult, doing good things for good causes,” Waldrup said. “I have really enjoyed my senior year, being involved with so much.”
Waldrup said she enjoys being president of the school’s FCA chapter because of the opportunities it provides her to interact with younger students.
“I enjoy being a leader for myself and other students,” she said. “I enjoy trying to schedule events and helping out with the FCA mission.”
Waldrup said she intends to enroll at East Mississippi Community College after graduation. She said she doesn’t know what field she will pursue, but she does plan to give it a lot of thought before deciding. But she said she will enjoy attending a larger school.
“At smaller schools like BA, you are sheltered from a lot of things,” she said. “That could be good or bad really, but I would like to experience the exposure that larger schools provide.”
Waldrup said she thoroughly enjoyed her time at BA, and she encourages her underclassmen to slow down so that they too can savor the memories and moments within the school.
“Do your best, study and don’t be lazy,” she said, with a laugh. “If you are capable of doing something, do it. It will help you in the long run with basically anything in life. Make the most of your high school experience. The whole experience teaches you so much in life.”
