COLUMBUS, Miss. – It was 20 years ago that Dr. Heath Stevens learned about the Mississippi Governor’s School while a student at the Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science. Today, he is back on campus as an MGS faculty member and invited speaker.
“I honestly did not know very much about MGS when I applied,” said Stevens when asked why he chose to attend MGS.
He explained that he found about the residential honors program as a sophomore at MSMS, and he asked his school counselor about the program. During the conversation, she suggested that he consider going to MGS that summer. Little did he know that it would be a life-changing event.
“From a scholar’s perspective, I learned how to think critically perhaps the first time,” he said, noting that his major course was taught by the “multitalented Dr. Roscoe Stribling.” The course was about DNA and human cloning. “MGS was so much more than academics for me, though. It is quite possible that I was the only gifted student in my small hometown high school, so I did not have much interaction with others of a similar mindset to myself.”
“I loved learning, and MGS made me love being around other people who also loved learning,” he added. Steven’s said he is a firm believer of MGS’s mission to create a “community of scholars” after having joined such a program himself. “From the faculty/staff perspective, I am always learning new things from year to year from scholars. I still enjoy being challenged by thought-provoking questions and discussions.” Stevens serves as a professional counselor with MSMS.
When asked how it feels to have been at MGS for 20 years, Stevens jokingly said, “I felt like the old man or grandfather on campus for quite some time. I have been with the program with three different directors, and I have seen a lot of changes over the years. I just think that it is both weird and an honor to have such an institutional history in my mind that is often tapped.”
As for students who may be interested in attending MGS, Heath said individuals should take the first step and reach out to the program. He also suggested they read everything for details and follow instructions because it is a big part of the application process and course selection.
“Also, try to make mostly As in classes and do well on standardized tests,” he added. “Come to MGS. You will not regret it when all is said and done.”
For additional information, please follow MGS at msgovernorsschool on Facebook and Instagram and on Twitter @MSGovSchool.
MGS was established in 1981 at The W by the administration and faculty and by Gov. William F. Winter. Since its establishment, the MGS has provided approximately 3,500 students from across the state with a high quality educational experience that has challenged them to grow as individuals.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 15, 2018
Contact: Alexis Smith, communications intern
Mississippi Governor’s School
(662) 542-3015
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