Senior Spotlight: Raquel Kirk, “Say Yes to Everything”
When Raquel Kirk began her high school journey, she was given the advice to “Say yes to everything! Join as many clubs as possible and do as much as you can, so you can find your skills and passion.” This advice undoubtedly drove Raquel’s experience at Bolivar Central High School (BCHS), as she has a lengthy list of extracurriculars that she said “yes” to, which include Beta Club, Fellowship of Christian Students (FCS), Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA), Student Government Association (SGA), and perhaps the most influential one for Raquel, Future Farmers of America (FFA).
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“Because of FFA, I was able to find my people, my purpose, and become a better leader. I recommend this organization to anyone as there is something for everyone, even if you don’t want to be a farmer,” said Raquel. “I never thought I would be on the path I am today, but I am simply because I joined FFA. It’s honestly the best thing you can do if you want to find a community and pathway for your future.”
FFA allowed Raquel to gain insight into the importance of agriculture, opened many opportunities for her, and strengthened her passion for nature and the environment. Raquel’s positive experience with FFA influenced her decision to attend college and study natural resources after she graduates May 2025.
Outside of school, Raquel enjoys church activities, volunteering at the animal shelter, visiting the residents at Christian Care Center, and hiking. Raquel considers her faith in Jesus and love for nature to be the two things she is most passionate about. In fact, some of Raquel’s favorite memories pertain to these two passions.
“One of my favorite high school memories is when I was younger and students and adults from Parrans Chapel would come together to the high school and pray over the staff, building, and students. Another memory was when I competed in my first FFA contest and our team was the Regional Champions in Land Judging.”
Raquel says if she could thank one person who has helped her throughout her high school career, it would be Wayne Webster.
“He has been there for me since I was in middle school and because of his influence, I learned how to be a hard worker, withstand the outside heat, love others, and most importantly, follow Christ,” said Raquel.
The supportive community at BCHS is what Raquel will miss the most after she graduates. Raquel shared that her FFA advisors, Jefferey Sartain and Aaron Gibson, are two of the influential and supportive figures in her time at BCHS.
Raquel says high school taught her that failure is how we learn, and that it is okay to not be perfect. She hopes to leave a legacy of stepping out of your comfort zone, believing in yourself, working hard, and giving the best in everything you do.
If Raquel Kirk were to give advice to incoming freshmen, she would give the same advice she received: say yes to everything!
Want to see your senior (high school or college) featured at Hatchie Press, e-mail news@hatchiepress.com.
Author Hannah Thompson
As the assistant director of the Bolivar‑Hardeman County Library, Hannah has the privilege of sharing her love of stories with the Hardeman County community every day. She is excited to do the same as a member of the Hatchie Press team. When she is not working, you’ll likely find Hannah reading in the company of her sweet feline children, Galinda and Galileo.
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