Meet Julia Watson! Julia recently graduated from Flowery Branch High School. She plans to attend Georgia College and State University, where she plans to major in Biology.

“After completing my degree, I aspire to pursue a career in the medical field, with a particular interest in working with children or serving communities in need,” she said.

Please tell us a little bit about your family.
“I come from a very close, tight-knit family that has always supported and pushed me to be my best. I have two older siblings who are twins—one attends the University of Mississippi and the other is at the University of North Georgia. This past year has been especially difficult for us, as my mom was diagnosed with cancer in November 2024. The journey through her surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments has taken a toll on us physically, emotionally, and financially. Watching her go through so much pain has been incredibly hard, but it has also brought us closer together. My parents work tirelessly to provide for our family, and I am deeply proud and grateful to have them in my life. Their strength and love inspire me every day.”

What are your plans after graduation?
“My plan is to attend Georgia College and State University, where I plan to major in Biology. After completing my degree, I aspire to pursue a career in the medical field, with a particular interest in working with children or serving communities in need. Witnessing my mother’s battle with cancer has had a profound impact on me—it ignited a deep desire to support others through their most challenging times. Her experience has taught me the importance of compassion, empathy, and being present for those who are struggling, even when their pain may not be visible.”

What are two of your favorite restaurants in our community?
“Definitely Caroline’s on Main ( I also work there haha) and Peyton’s Pie Company.”

If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would it be and why?
“If I could travel anywhere in the world right now, I would go to a place where I could truly make a difference—somewhere like Haiti or a rural area in Central or South America where communities are struggling with access to basic needs like clean water, healthcare, and education. My sister goes on mission trips to help people in need, and seeing the impact she makes has really inspired me to want to do the same. I want to be part of something bigger than myself—whether it’s offering medical support, helping build schools, or just being a source of hope. Being able to serve others in a place where help is truly needed would be the most meaningful and rewarding kind of travel for me.”

What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
“‘Grey’s Anatomy.'”

If you were asked to give advice to your senior class and the younger students at your school, what would you say?
“If I were asked to give advice to my senior class and the younger students at my school, I would say this: don’t take any moment for granted. High school goes by faster than you think, and every experience—good or bad—shapes you into the person you’re becoming. Surround yourself with people who truly care about you, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Life will throw challenges your way, but those tough moments will also reveal your strength and resilience. Work hard, stay true to who you are, and always be kind—you never know what someone else is going through. And most importantly, believe in yourself, even when it feels hard. You’re capable of more than you think.”

If you were able to be cast as yourself into a television show or series, what show would you want to be in?
“If I could be cast as myself into any television show, I would choose ‘Grey’s Anatomy.’ The show has always inspired me because it highlights the challenges and rewards of working in the medical field. I’ve always wanted to help people and make a real difference in their lives, and being part of a hospital environment—where every day brings new opportunities to save lives and support others—really speaks to me. ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ shows the strength, compassion, and resilience it takes to care for others, and I’d love to be a part of that kind of world, even in a fictional setting.

If you could choose anyone to have lunch with, who would you choose? Why? And where, locally, would you meet for this lunch?
“If I could have lunch with anyone, I would choose my future self. I think it would be fascinating to sit down with the person I’ll become after all the hard work, challenges, and growth I’ve experienced. I’d want to ask what advice I can take now to stay focused on my goals, especially as I work toward my dreams of helping others in the medical field. It would be a unique chance to reflect on how far I’ve come and what I can do today to keep moving in the right direction. I’d want to meet at a local spot like Whole Being Cafe somewhere with a comfortable, homey atmosphere, where we could have an honest and meaningful conversation about the future. If not my future self I would choose my sister. She has been through many challenges, especially when it comes to mental health and depression, and her ability to navigate those struggles with such insight and resilience is something I deeply admire. She always knows just the right advice to offer and has a way of helping me see things from a new perspective. I’d love to spend time with her, learning from her experiences and hearing more about the journey she’s been on.”

What is your favorite thing about our community?
“One of my favorite parts of my life is the incredible sense of community I’ve found in Flowery Branch. The people here are genuinely caring and have shown unwavering support for my family and me, especially during the difficult times we’ve faced. Whether it’s a kind message, a meal dropped off at our door, or simply checking in when I’m feeling down, their compassion never goes unnoticed. Even when I’ve felt alone, my community has reminded me that I’m never truly by myself. Their consistent encouragement—whether it’s cheering me on in school, being there during my mom’s treatments, or just offering a listening ear—has made a lasting impact on me. Flowery Branch isn’t just where I live; it’s a place that feels like family, and it has helped shape me into someone who values kindness, connection, and the power of showing up for others.”

Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
“In 5 to 10 years, I see myself in the medical field, possibly working as a pediatrician or in another area focused on helping children. I hope to have completed my education and be making a real impact in the lives of others, particularly those who are facing difficult health challenges. I want to be someone who not only provides care but also offers compassion and understanding, like the people who have supported me and my family. On a personal level, I envision myself continuing to grow as an individual, surrounded by a community that values kindness and empathy, and I hope to be involved in initiatives that give back to those in need, just as I’ve been inspired by others.”

What is something on your bucket list?
“One of the things on my bucket list is to visit South Korea. Someone very close to my heart is from there, and I would love to experience the culture firsthand. South Korea has such a rich history, and I’m eager to learn more about its traditions, visit historical landmarks, and immerse myself in the vibrant energy of the country. I’m also excited to explore the local food scene, trying everything from street food to traditional dishes. It would be a trip filled with both personal significance and a deeper appreciation of a culture I admire.”

What is your go to band / singer when you cant decide what to listen to?
“When I can’t decide what to listen to, my go-to music is often worship music. It has a calming and grounding effect on me, helping me to clear my mind and feel more centered, especially when I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed. I find comfort in the lyrics and the soothing melodies, which always seem to lift my spirits. Some of my favorite artists are Hillsong Worship, Elevation Worship, and Kari Jobe. Their music helps me refocus and connect with something deeper, whether I’m seeking peace, encouragement, or simply a moment of reflection.”

Favorite month? favorite holiday? and best single day on the calendar?
“My favorite month is April. I love it because of the beautiful spring weather, and Easter celebrations and also the weather. I feel like everyone is happy during this time and life feels so happy and positive.

“As for my favorite holiday, it’s Thanksgiving. It’s a special time when our family comes together to share a meal, reflect on the blessings in our lives, and express gratitude for everything we have. It’s a reminder to appreciate the people around me and everything I’ve been given.

“The best single day on the calendar for me is Mother’s Day. It’s a chance to honor my mom for all her love, support, and strength. It’s a day to reflect on how much she means to me and show my appreciation for everything she does.”

What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
“I would rate achieving a personal goal a 10/10. Whether it’s something I’ve been working on for a long time or a smaller goal that I’ve set for myself, there’s something incredibly fulfilling about reaching that milestone. It’s not just about the outcome, but the journey—the effort, the growth, and the perseverance it takes to get there. The satisfaction of seeing all that hard work pay off, knowing that I pushed myself and stayed committed, is priceless. It’s a reminder that I’m capable of more than I realize and that I can take on whatever challenges come next. That feeling is indescribable.”

Who inspires you to be better?
“My teachers inspire me to be better. They’ve always pushed me to think critically, work hard, and strive for excellence. Whether it’s their dedication to helping students succeed or the way they challenge me to go beyond what I thought was possible, their influence has shaped the person I am today. They’ve shown me the importance of perseverance, and they’ve instilled in me a sense of curiosity and a drive to keep improving, both in and out of the classroom. I’m grateful for their guidance and the impact they’ve had on my growth. Especially Mrs. Carter, she has poured so much into her students and cared about their futures. Its amazing to watch her change so many students lives.”