Presley Smith

What year did you graduate from BHS?

2020

Tell us about your accomplishments since graduating from BHS.

I started working for the Burlington Community School District this year. I work as a Secretary for Grants and Community Outreach. I studied Elementary Education at the University of Iowa for two years, but I currently have that on pause as my husband and I save up for a house and other expenses. I am open to finishing that degree someday, but I also highly enjoy working in the administration building. I love working for the district that I grew up in, and I plan to stay here for the rest of my career.

During your time at BHS, did you have a favorite staff member who had a positive impact on you? Tell us about them.

The entire English department, but specifically Ms. King and Mr. Boyd were the teachers I connected with the most during my senior year at BHS. I have always loved writing, and both teachers were so amazingly encouraging to me as a high school student. They provided me with guidance and inspiration that I still carry to this day. I can’t thank them enough for how much they helped me during my high school years!

Do you have any advice for recent and/or future graduates?

High school is both amazing and incredibly awkward to experience. You will have some really awesome days, but also some very discouraging days. It is how you choose to react to these days that makes all the difference. Never be afraid to ask for advice or help from the people you trust. Use this time to create everlasting memories with friends and staff members. You will carry these memories with you for years to come!

How did your time at BHS impact your adult life?

My time at BHS helped me explore different opportunities that I would not have explored otherwise. I took advantage of all the course options available, especially in the art and English departments. High school is a great time to try new things and figure out who you are and what you want to achieve. My years at BHS were able to help shape me into the person I am today.