By Leah Schwarting

NATCHEZ — At the Natchez High School graduation ceremony, Jairus Patten walked across the stage, ready as any senior to head out into the world.

But unlike other seniors, he was only 16.

The first chair tuba player graduated from NHS early with two full scholarships to Alcorn State University to choose between waiting for him.

Jairus also earned the prestigious Patrick S. Gilmore Award, awarded for the same achievements as his scholarships: academics and musicianship.

Originally Jairus, like his father Aaron, played the trumpet. In the seventh grade the band needed tuba players, and he decided to switch instruments.

Band quickly became his focus in high school.

“I felt like I was in my second home, being in the band hall,” Jairus said.

At the beginning of the year NHS Band Director Marcus Washington appointed him tuba section leader.

Jairus took to the role. He set up special practice sessions with his fellow tubas, working on pieces until they got them right.

Washington remarked that he never had to worry about the tuba section once Jairus became the section leader.

Outside of school, Jairus helped out at New Hope Missionary Church, working with set-up and the church’s video and audio.

At home, his parents were proud of Jairus’s sense of responsibility and accomplishments.

“He sets a great example for his little brother (Zelik),” said Linda Patten, Jairus’s mother, said.

But while Jairus was focusing on band and volunteering, his academic efforts were also being recognized.

One day, after a counselor met with him, he brought home paperwork with his expected graduation date.

Linda was surprised to see that the year listed was 2015. She spoke with the counselor, who confirmed that, with a little extra work, Jairus could graduate early.

After a long period of discussion, Jairus decided to take an extra class and follow through with early graduation.

His dedication to his schoolwork resulted in receiving his scholarships to ASU, where he wants to study criminal justice to become a police officer like his uncle, Travis.

“It felt like a dream come true because I always wanted to go to Alcorn,” Jairus said.

It’s a long running family tradition. His mother and older brother, Aronte, also went to ASU. Aronte, like his brother, also received a full scholarship.

Come July, Jairus will be heading off to start band camp, exchanging his time as a NHS Bulldog for an ASU Brave.

However, Jairus doesn’t plan on forgetting his roots any time soon.

“I’m still going to be a Bulldog at heart,” Jairus said. “I’m just going to be a Brave.”