Mike O’Brian Goes Back For His 50th High School Reunion

This weekend it comes full circle for me when I finally get to go back for my 50th high school reunion! The big one...class of 1973! And I have to admit, there's a part of me that doesn't really know what to expect. I have never been to a reunion for my high school ever. And keep in mind, I haven't seen these classmates in over 50 years.

Having left the area I grew up in way back in 1977, I don't get back to Highland, Indiana very often. It's a great little town with a lot to offer and I have nothing but great memories growing up. At the time, Highland only had about 25,000 people living there and only had one high school.

So consider this, those kids you went to grade school with, you also went through jr. high and high school. Sure, there were other high schools you could have gone to in the area. Private schools, parochial schools that some opted for. But most went to our high school in Highland.

Like everyone else, through social media, I've been able to touch base with a few former classmates. Some have visited when in town, but for the most part, it's been out of sight, out of mind.

I will tell you that I did okay in the classroom, played sports, although not at the varsity level, and seemingly got along with everyone. I really wasn't attached to one group or another through the years, but I got through it.

Even in high school, I have nothing but great memories, especially my senior year. That year that we all look forward to...only taking a few classes, we were king of the hill, we ruled the school. After taking our lumps as sophomores and juniors, it was our turn.

Now keep in mind, our high school was nice. In fact, it's probably in better shape than we left it 50 years ago. But I am looking forward to going back, seeing a few familiar faces and re-connecting with some old friends.

If you'd like to scroll down, I've posted my senior picture, to a current one and a few pictures of our high school...enjoy!

This is it...the sign outside my old high school back in Highland, Indiana. It's still there after all these years. Going to be a little weird going back, but looking forward to it!

Inside the school is also a sign that reminds of who we were growing up. After 50 years, I think I'm still a "Highland Trojan"!

The famous "Senior Court" with the walls of Highland High School...and yes, you are correct, only seniors were allowed in this courtyard! Good times!

One of the hallowed halls at Highland High School that I wandered during my years there. Boy, if these walls could talk...I doubt they'd have anything to say really!

Take this hallway to the gym at Highland High School. Quite a few basketball games and wrestling matches in the gym. It's a cool gym too!

Nothing much has changed here...in fact I think it looks even nicer than it did 50 years ago. But a lot of great memories in this gym with basketball games, wrestling matches and much more!

If anything has changed since leaving, it's the pool at Highland High School. New location, banners and a diving pool. Like I said before, this place looks a lot nice than when we left a half a century ago!

This joint has been in Highland for the longest time...might have to make a stop. They have great burgers...so if you're ever in the area, stop by Miner Dunn to have one! Gonna have to stop by for at least one burger during the weekend!