I Katie Rigby, attended Madera High School (MHS) back when Madera South was actually the South Campus. I have many positive memories of my teachers and coaches. Mrs. Nancy Blankeship encouraged us to think outside the box in Leadership. Mr. Clemensen motivated me through Algebra, and math has never been my strong suit. I could go on and on about the teachers and staff. Serving as the Student Representative to the School Board, I learned a great deal, and talking to the Trustees before and after the meetings helped me choose my college major.
I attended Fresno State, where I majored in Business – Marketing. Preparing for law school and taking the LSAT made me a bundle of nerves, but the Bar Exam was the hardest test I have ever taken.
All in all, I learned that they are simply tests. No matter the results, I would wake up the next day just as I did before. If I pass, great. If not, it was practice—I can do better next time. I have had the good fortune to practice a variety of areas of law. When a position as judge became available, I was excited for the new challenge: to be an impartial third party who can ensure fairness and justice, and settle disputes to help our community.
Shoot for the stars. Even if you miss, you can reach the moon. Basically, aim big, because every step you take toward your big dream will serve you as you move forward and grow.
Also, remember perspective. A test or a championship game may seem like the end of the world. Do your best. Try your hardest. But if you don’t get the perfect score or win the game, you will still move forward—to the next class, to the next season. No one can hold you back except you.