With graduation nearing these Mayfield High School seniors reflect on their experiences, challenges and future aspirations. Two seniors I’ve interviewed are David Way and Brelind Cunningham, they have shared their thoughts on how their time at Mayfield has shaped them and what lies ahead.

David Way: His high school experience 

The first senior that I interviewed was David Way. David is a dear friend of mine and we have known each other since middle school. David Way has always had a thing for hands on work, and that passion has guided him toward his next chapter. “I’m going to Kent State and majoring in mechanical engineering technology,” he shared. His decision to pursue engineering was heavily influenced by his teacher Mr. Schmidt as he stated. “Mr. Schmidt has had a very good impact on my life as he helped me realize what career I want to go into, and he is an amazing person and teacher”.

Looking back at his time in high school, David sees growth in more ways than one. “I’ve grown my technical skills and became bigger as a person,” he stated. However, if given the chance, he would have made some adjustments to his education. “I wish I could make my classes more career-oriented,” he admitted. Like most students, David has experienced some memorable and, at times, embarrassing moments. “I passed out at band camp due to the heat,” he recalled with a laugh. Despite such moments, he values the experiences that have prepared him for his next steps.

Brelind Cunningham: Pathway Through Manufacturing 

Brelind’s senior year has been packed with opportunities that have paved the way for his future career. “I took two internships working at two different manufacturing companies via Learn and Earn, and I am an Option Ambassador,” he stated. He has gained important industrial insights as a result of these encounters. Brelind intends to work full time for a year following graduation before enrolling at Cleveland State University to get a degree in manufacturing. “I see myself working for a full year and then going into CSU for manufacturing,” he said. His entry into the Learn and Earn program came as a bit of a surprise. “My mom forced me into Learn and Earn, but I also am doing it for the money,” he admitted. Teachers played a significant role in Brelind’s development. “Mr. Pinto helped me out my junior year, along with both Mr. Hayes’s,” he said. Their guidance and support helped shape his interests and career path.

Staff Support 

David mentioned that Mr. Schmidt, a faculty member at Mayfield had a huge impact on David’s education and career he wanted to go into, “It’s rewarding to see students find their passion and take the next step toward their goals. David has a strong drive, and I know he will excel in his field,” he said.

Brelind’s mom wanted him to be a part of the learn and earn program as he stated, “I wanted him to be part of Learn and Earn because I knew it would give him a head start in his career. I’m proud of how much he has learned and grown through this experience”.

As these seniors prepare to leave Mayfield, their experiences and the people who have influenced them. It shows that Mayfield high school has endless possibilities and support for people who want to go into vast amounts of careers that they have options to do so.