Michael Bass is currently at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill learning the traditions of The Marching Tar Heels.
“It’s a whole lot different than high school, but it’s probably the most fun I’ve ever had …,” he said.
Just a couple of months ago, the university freshman addressed the Hobbton High School Class of 2015 as valedictorian with Salutatorian Elvie Sumner.
“It was an extreme honor,” Bass said while taking a break from band camp. “It’s almost unreal.”
Together, they gave messages of encouragement to their classmates and ready for the future. Bass spoke about how life is not about the destination, but more about the journey. Sumner spoke about friendships and the future.
“Enjoy each moment,” Bass said referring to his message.
Bass and Sumner encouraged each other through their high school journey, which ended at the top of the class. At Hobbton, Sumner participated in sports and taking Advanced Placement classes to challenge herself. For the upcoming school year, Sumner is attending Appalachian State University in Boone to major in building science, architecture and technology design.
“I’m working towards trying to become an architect,” Sumner said about her career goals. “I like designing. It was always interesting to me.”
Bass, an alto saxophone player, said the school taught him a lot about life. While attending Hobbton, he was involved with the football team, baseball, marching band and winter track.
“I just did stuff that I found enjoyable,” he said.
After high school, he decided to attend UNC-Chapel Hill because it was a “family-favorite.”
“It’s where I always wanted to go since I was a little kid,” Bass said about becoming a Tar Heel.
He’s currently majoring in political science and wants to have a career in the law field, if he doesn’t change his mind. There’s an 85 percent chance that he’ll go in that direction.
“I was a kid that enjoyed watching the History Channel and the documentaries,” he said. “I always enjoyed history and law was always something I found interesting. In a way, I can be stubborn and I like to argue with people.”
In addition to arguing and debating with people in a friendly manner, he also enjoys helping others – an action that comes with the law profession. He hopes his words at graduation help future graduates as they try to balance schoolwork, activities and their social lives.
“Never give up,” Bass said while reflecting on his high school experiences and having fun. “I try to look at the bright side of everything and try not to worry about the negatives.”