Deshun Hudson said the Yazoo community was the perfect setting for him to grow up in, and he attributes the tight-knit atmosphere to his desire to give back when he embarks on his next chapter in life.
“I love Yazoo because it is so small,” Hudson said. “You can connect with more people and get to know them. You can connect more than you can in a larger town or city, and that is what I love about it.”
Hudson, 18, is a senior at Yazoo County High School, and his mark is visible within the district he has attended his entire academic career. Outside of playing football, he is also a member of the Student Council, Beta Club and the school newspaper. When he is not found within the classroom or on the football field, he also works at Kroger.
“My favorite subject is math because it challenges me,” he said. “I enjoy the challenge.”
Hudson has found a way to balance his studies with his extracurricular activities and his part-time job. He said the secret is to tackle his academic studies first before moving onto anything else.
“I use my time wisely in school to get all my work done so that I can focus my attention on other things when I am not in school,” Hudson said.
Hudson began playing football when he was younger to bond with his brother. Little did he know, it would plant a seed inside to perfect the sport.
“I really got into football to have a better relationship with my brother,” he said. “I ended up liking it myself, and it grew from there.”
Hudson said he enjoys being a part of the Yazoo County school family. With a small student population, he said it enables him to develop closer relationships with his fellow students and his instructors.
“My favorite teachers would have to be Coach Dobbs, Mrs. Langdon and Mrs. Smiley because they are always there to help,” he said. “They want to better us as students. You get to know your teachers and classmates in a more personal relationship. It goes beyond just listening to them in the classroom.”
Hudson intends to attend the University of Southern Mississippi after graduation to pursue a degree in Occupational Therapy.
“In ten years, I would love to be starting my own practice, living in a house, married and starting a life,” said Hudson.
Another YCHS student, Destiny Bush, also has big plans for her future. Not only does she intend to further her education, but she would also like to eventually become an entrepreneur, with a goal of one day owning her own company.
But even before she begins those next chapters, Bush continues to make a name for herself in her hometown, excelling in both her studies and her extracurricular activities.
“Her dedication to her education and to school in general make Destiny stand out,” said Julie Funchess, assistant principal at Yazoo County High School. “She works so very hard and is very respectful.”
A junior at the local county high school, Bush has made her mark within the local school system since her arrival about nine years ago. She is involved with the Beta Club, the Student Council and JROTC. She also finds time to be very active in the school’s Archery team and Color Guard.
Although she is gifted in both math and science, Bush admits she favors science the most. After high school, she plans to attend the University of Mississippi to pursue a Biochemical Engineering degree, eventually a master’s degree as well.
“I make sure to balance my time,” Bush said. “But I also use my activities, such as Color Guard, to relieve stress.”
Bush credits her teachers to her success in the classroom. Mr. Escobar has made an incredible impact on her in class.
“He teaches in a way that is easy to understand,” Bush said. “And he will always help you out. But I also loved Mrs. King, even though she is no longer at the school. She made a big impact on me by being a great teacher.”
Bush admits there is some competition at times among her peers. But she admits the small-town atmosphere reminds her that comradery is also a foundation.
“Growing up in a community like Yazoo is great because even though there might be competitiveness, everyone is always there to help you out,” Bush said. “I love my school and the teachers because they are always willing to reach out and help each other, especially with the teachers. The teachers really like to connect with the students, and they are always eager to help you out.”
Aside from furthering her education, Bush said she is interested in establishing her own company. Regardless of her path, she credits her community and school with setting the foundation.
“Destiny is a leader,” Funchess said. “We know that she can be counted on to represent Yazoo County well.”
