As seniors crunch down on college applications, many students have strong features about themselves, highlighting specific achievements or hobbies. With a track record of determination and a family of graduates behind him, Austin Elder (12) is set to redefine what it means to strive for greatness in every endeavor.
Elder attended Ayala all four years, raising the bar of difficulty by taking advanced classes every year. He made sure to push himself to excel in everything he did at work and in school. He also dedicates time and effort to daily track practices, including doing extra work with coaches.
“He’s a great kid, every day he trains hard, is a really hard worker, and is determined,” said Coach Jeffrey Allen, the Boys Track coach. “He came out every day and did everything we asked. We kept him around and now he’s really starting to excel as a senior.”
Elder believes grit and determination drive him to excel in sports and high school, pushing him to perform his best in everything he does. Without this determination, he feels he wouldn’t be able to juggle such commitments successfully. Many of his teachers see this willpower through everything Elder does.
“I watched him win a track race last year. I loved seeing passion and hard work pay off,” said Mrs. Christy Koenig, the AP Psychology and AVID teacher. “He’s a winner inside and outside of the classroom,”
Elder is uncertain about his future plans and which major or job to pursue, but he has ideas. He is considering becoming an intern manager at In-N-Out for the higher salary, but intends to obtain a degree first to have a fallback option.
As for if Elder ever had any pressures between him and his siblings who previously graduated, he didn’t really see it as a problem.
“I probably fall in the same footsteps as [my siblings] did, and because they’re going to Mount Sac, I’ll probably go there. They work at In-N-Out, I work In-N-Out,” Elder (12). “Even if they have something that I don’t have, I don’t care. We’re not the same person, so why should I compare myself to them.”
One of the many ways Elder stays on track and balances his school and personal life is by regularly asking teachers for advice.
“I just try to get through to him so that he can go farther than he thinks he can. Your body will give up, but your mind can get you further,” said Allen.
Not only does Elder use his tenacity to propel himself success in sports and academics, enabling effective commitment management, he also has a friendly nature toward his classmates and teachers.
“This is my second year teaching Austin,” said Koenig. “He is dependable, motivated, friendly, easy-going, and respectful. He’s always willing to help others if needed.”
Though Elder’s path seems easy to the eyes, there are some challenges he’s had to face; whether that be throwing up during practice by pushing his body too hard or being unable to socialize outside school. Despite these challenges, he was able to work through the trials with a strong spirit.
“This year, I have free time to hang out with friends. I make sure when they’re free when I’m free,” said Elder. “I have everything done so that I’m not putting myself in a bad position to do homework assignments really late.”
As Elder navigates college applications, his determination and family legacy set him apart, pushing him to excel in academics, social experiences, and track at Ayala.
