NATCHEZ — The decision for Autry Clayton III to pursue a career as an attorney was inevitable.

The Natchez High School senior hopes to one day become a corporate attorney that helps with the business aspect of big corporations, like his grandmother and great uncles. If he stays on his path toward being an attorney, he would become a third generation private legal consultant, as his mother, Constance Clayton, has a legal background as well.

“It just feels more natural to me,” Clayton said. “It’s in the bloodlines.”

Spoken like a true teenager, becoming an attorney attracts Clayton because he’s a fan of arguing. In fact, he said he debates regularly.

“I argue with my mom every day, and sadly, she wins every day,” Clayton said.

Arguing isn’t something Clayton does out of spite, but instead, he enjoys it because of the challenge it presents, demanding him to make believable points and sway opinion.

“I like to use my brain and challenge people with what I know to prove I can get something done,” Clayton said.

The Natchez High senior has a 3.3 GPA at Natchez, and Clayton’s favorite subject is history because he likes the challenge of remembering names and dates.

While maintaining his GPA, Clayton has played golf at Natchez High for six years and has played football for four seasons. Jerry Baldwin coached him in football and in golf, and worrying about Clayton’s grades has never been problematic for Baldwin.

“He’s always tended to his business with grades despite being a two-sport athlete,” Baldwin said.

Baldwin said Clayton shot the best score for the golf team in half of the matches this year. He credited Clayton’s upbringing for his growth as a golfer.

“Autry has a good work ethic,” Baldwin said. “He’s a good kid, and both of his parents are involved in his life.”

Golf has always sparked Clayton’s interest more than football because it requires a clear mind to perform. Mastering his thoughts on the golf course and in the classroom peaks Clayton’s interest when the challenge becomes steeper.

“I’ve always liked challenges, because I’ve always felt bored in regular obstacles,” Clayton said. “I get my best grades when I feel challenged, because it interests me and I focus.”

Clayton will look to challenge himself further as he journeys toward college. Clayton hopes to study business economics at the University of Mississippi.