Addison Tidey
Staff Writer
Last weekend, I left the familiar halls of Cumberland Valley High School behind and stepped onto a college campus to visit a former CV Eye editor, Callie Will, at the University of Mississippi. Between dorm tours and dining hall stories, she shared what she wished she’d known back at CV: that high school isn’t just about grades and resumes—it’s about figuring out who you are and what drives you.
Will emphasized the importance of making independent choices about the future.
“The biggest advice I could give someone is to choose a school that feels right for you. Not a school that feels right for you and your friends. Yes, leaving your best friends you have had your whole life is hard, but if you want to go to school far, go far. If you want to go to a small school, go to a small school. You are your own person and you will feel happiest if you know you chose for yourself.”
When asked how her time at Cumberland Valley prepared her for college, Will reflected on how the challenges of a large high school ultimately helped her adjust to campus life.
“Cumberland Valley prepared us well. Being such a big school it was harder to get lots of attention from teachers, but honestly that worked out cause now you are at an even bigger school. I have a better understanding that I'm not always the teacher's number one priority. Also Cumberland Valley did give harder work which helped with college too,” she said.
As she settles into college life, Callie credits Cumberland Valley for helping her grow into the student she is today. Her message to current Eagles is simple: trust yourself, take chances, and enjoy the ride.