Inspired by her grandfather, Horner aims to make him proud

Elk River Rotary Student of the Month

Student’s name: Audrey Horner

Parents: Adam and Kelli Horner

Town: Elk River

List the activities you have participated in and tell of your proudest accomplishments:

Throughout high school I have participated in many activities such as the Varsity Girls Swim & Dive team, YMCA Club Swim team and Speech & Debate team. I am also a member of the National Honor Society and band. My junior year, I was a member of the Student Council. As a member of the Speech and Debate team, I have also had the opportunity to be a peer coach, captain, and State competitor. Throughout all my activities, I have received many varsity letters as well as extra recognition. One of my proudest accomplishments is making it to the State Speech Tournament my junior and senior year. As a State competitor, I am one of the top 24 speakers in Minnesota and am truly grateful for the opportunity to speak alongside other amazing students. Speech is an activity that is truly personal. You craft a message you are passionate about and share your voice with the world.

What is your favorite class and why? What is your favorite subject?

My favorite classes have been my AP World History, AP Calculus BC, and AP Literature classes. Each of these classes challenge me in a different way that makes me a better learner. My World History and Literature teachers specifically do an amazing job offering a diverse perspective of the world that makes me excited to learn. My favorite subject is math! I have always loved math and the simplicity of finding an answer to any question. While each individual problem might be challenging, there is always a concrete answer!

What are your future plans?

My future plan is to attend Iowa State University, and I plan on majoring in Chemical Engineering! My long term plan is to become a lawyer, but my goal is to help people in whatever I end up doing!

What are your hobbies and/or personal interests?

Some of my hobbies include spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, drinking coffee, shopping, and spending time on the lake. I really love adventures and finding new places to visit, things to eat, and people to talk to.

Who is your hero, if you have one, and why?

My hero is my grandpa. He was someone who chose to live life every day with a smile. He taught me the values of hard work, kindness, and gratitude. He was one of my biggest cheerleaders, role models, and someone I just want to make proud even though he recently passed away.

Tell of a most memorable experience that relates to school, personal interests or a hobby.

My most memorable experience from school was part of my school trip to Washington DC in seventh grade. My school had the opportunity to participate in the 75th D-Day Ceremony as part of this trip, and I was chosen to say the Pledge of Allegiance on national television. This trip was an opportunity for me to reflect on all the people who have died for our country as well as honor the ones who are still serving. This once in a lifetime opportunity was one I will never forget!

How do you demonstrate leadership?

I demonstrate leadership through my attitude and work ethic. I try to approach every challenge with an open mind and a positive attitude. I think these traits translate to what people see in leaders. When someone is willing to try, fail, and succeed, it makes others more willing to follow. I would like to believe I am someone people look towards in these situations.

How do you approach academics to achieve success?

I approach academics in order to achieve success through the mentality that each new challenge is an opportunity to learn. I have always enjoyed school and the process of learning, and I have found that having an open mind really helps, especially when taking challenging classes.

What special projects have you done, in or out of school?

As a member of the National Honor Society I have led special projects as part of earning my letter. For the last two years, I have gotten a group of my friends together and we wrote handwritten thank you cards to all the staff at our school. Not only were these cards handwritten but also hand delivered. I believe that all the staff, not only teachers, need an extra special expression of gratitude that shows student appreciation.

Why do you think you won this award?

I believe I won this award because I am hardworking, kind, and willing to face challenges. I have a very strong academic repertoire and am also involved in many extracurriculars.

What does it mean to you?

This award means a lot to me because it is a physical representation of my hard work, dedication, and involvement. It shows that everything I do does not go unnoticed. I would not be where I am today without the help and support I have received from my parents, extended family, teachers and friends.