For Kinley Gibson, a 2024 graduate of Potosi Senior High School, college has been a journey of both growth and challenges. Now majoring in Biology at Southwest Baptist University (SBU), Kinley is pursuing a degree rooted in purpose and passion.
Kinley chose biology because of her love for the subject and the wide range of career opportunities it offers. While she admits she’s still figuring out what she wants to do long term, she is seriously considering being a high school biology teacher. For her, it’s more than just a job, it’s personal.
That passion traces back to her time at Potosi, especially in Mr. Chavosky’s classroom. He introduced her to the parts of science she now loves most and helped her see it as more than just a class. It became something she now imagines doing for the rest of her life. Through his enthusiasm and the way he explained complex concepts with excitement, he sparked something in her.
At the same time, Mrs. Kay gave her something equally as important; confidence. When Kinley doubted whether she was capable of going to college, Mrs. Kay reassured her. “She showed me that I’m much smarter and stronger than I thought I was,” Kinley shared. Mr. Chavosky gave her the passion, Mrs. Kay gave her the belief that she could actually pursue it. Together, they shaped not only her major, but her future.
Transitioning into college, Kinley had certain expectations of what she thought her life would look like. “I thought I’d have so much time to be social and involved and thought I’d partake in so many activities,” she explained. The reality, however, has been much different. “I honestly do nothing except homework and go to work.” As a biology major, her workload is intense. She went on to say that she does at least 4 hours of homework every night.
Since graduating from high school, Kinley says she has grown in many ways. She’s learned that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness, and that taking care of herself is not optional. Most importantly, she’s discovered just how much she’s capable of achieving when she puts in the effort. Her advice to current upperclassmen at Potosi? Choose a college and a future based on what you truly want. “Don’t choose a path that serves anyone else but you.” She says. “You have the chance to choose yourself right now.”
As Kinley continues her college journey, one thing is clear: the lessons she learned at Potosi, and the teachers who believed in her, are helping guide her towards her goals. The goal to one day, stand in her own classroom, and be the teacher who gives a student both the passion and the confidence to chase their dreams.
