Clinton Resident Aaron Graves Pursues MC Honors College Studies in Hometown

MC freshman Aaron Graves, 18, of Clinton seeks to become a physician.

Clinton High graduate Aaron Graves sees enormous benefits to becoming a Mississippi College freshman in his hometown.

In August, Aaron will be among the 15 new freshmen enrolled at MC’s Honors College. It’s going to be the best place to pursue a biology-medical science major and strengthen his faith.

“MC being a Christian college was definitely a factor in my decision,” Aaron Graves said. “The fact that I found the opportunity to further my faith as well as my education is highly appealing.”

Aaron brings strong academic credentials to the table. He scored a perfect 36 on the ACT as a Clinton High student. He ranked No. 3 in his Clinton High graduating class of 351 students. He was one of four National Merit Scholarship Finalists in the CHS Class of 2020.

His classroom achievements didn’t happen by accident. “All throughout high school, I constantly pushed myself hardest in the manner of academics.” By the time he graduated in May, Aaron successfully completed eight of the 11 Advanced Placement courses offered at Clinton High.

“I largely credit much of my success in life so far to the capabilities Clinton Public School District has to push its students to be the best.”

Erin Norcross, director of MC’s Honors College, is delighted that Aaron selected the state’s oldest university to pursue his undergraduate studies.

“He is a wonderful young man and I am excited to welcome him to campus,” Norcross says of the future physician.

MC’s 2^nd Honors College class joins 14 other stellar students selected a year ago. All of the students received full scholarships. President Blake Thompson announced the university’s first Honors College at his March 2019 inauguration.

Aaron Graves knows his way around Mississippi College and his hometown of Clinton. His parents, Jonathan and Cherye Graves, graduated from MC in the 1990s. His grandfather also attended MC. “I will actually be a third generation Choctaw!,” he said.

“I am beyond excited to be attending MC this fall semester. And even if it may look a little different with COVID-19 guidelines, I am still extremely grateful that we are going to get on campus and have in person classes and other college experiences.”

When he’s not hitting the books, Aaron enjoys singing, trying out new art forms, and spending time outdoors, admiring God’s splendid nature scenes.

The 18-year-old and his family are members of Morrison Heights Baptist Church since 2007. The Clinton church is located just a couple of miles from the Baptist-affiliated university.

Other incoming Honors College freshmen are eager to get started, with classes to begin August 17. MC’s academic year will make adjusts in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic to prioritize student health and safety.

Honors College freshman Coulter Clement appreciates MC officials for keeping him informed every step of the way. “I would definitely say the MC staff has done an outstanding job on making sure that we, the students, have been informed about everything going on during these unprecedented times,” said the Water Valley resident. “The MC family has gone above and beyond to answer any questions we have and try to make this transition as easy and safe as possible.”