Tanner Egli

Parents: Kim and Tim Egli

Cumulative GPA and Class Rank: 3.91, 8 of 32

Activities: Vice President of National Honors Society; Student Body Treasurer and Student Council Representative; Class Vice President; President of Orchestra and selected to perform at SEISTA Orchestra Festival; Staff Interview Student Board Team leader; Division 1 ratings in numerous vocal and instrumental solos and ensembles at Solo & Ensemble Contest; Selection and performance of National Anthem at 2022 High School Football Class 1A Semi-finals; Performing in several Honor Choir and Honor Band performances; 5 qualifications for State Speech Competition; Selection for M Power U and presentation at Southeast lowa Days at the lowa State Capitol in Des Moines advocating for a reallocation of lowa Tourism funds; Participation in Quiz Bowl; 5+ Lead roles in school theater productions; Participated in Football, Track, Soccer, and Cross Country; Currently working to establish a WACO High School Turning Point USA Chapter.

Other Involvements: I currently serve as a Worship leader in my church and UNITED youth group. I also assist with the Wayland Lions Club, volunteering for Memorial Day and 4th of July Parades and meals through various community based organizations in Wayland. I also volunteer in the organization Youth for Christ in the surrounding areas in whatever capacity | can.

Future Plans: In the Fall I plan to attend Baylor University, transferring the Dual-Enrollment Credits I have earned while in High School, and Majoring in Business, Entrepreneurship, and Corporate Innovation. I then plan to attend Law School following my degree completion. I then plan to work as an Intellectual Property Attorney until I have paid off my student loans, and then continue to work as an Attorney in the Pro-Life Movement, start my own independent law practice, and start businesses of my own. I would love to retire early and make films and photograph the world, but most of all, I want to lead a life of meaning and provide for my family and community in whatever capacity | am able.

High School Experience and its impact: Growing up in a small school district teaches you a lot about people, and the connections I have made are incredible. The skills I have learned in communication, conduct, and integrity will serve me well wherever I go. Learning how to build an identity independent of what others may expect or project for you is something that has, and will forever, change my life.

Fondest Memory: It would be hard to choose only one memory being the "fondest." I would have to say that my fondest memories would be watching my school community come together for everything. I have watched our gym fill with people at every sporting event, every concert or production, in moments celebrating accomplishments, and moments filled with grief. Over the course of these years, this community has shown up loudly, and I tremble at the thought that it is not like that everywhere.

Most Impactful Teachers: Every teacher in the WACO district has compassion and impact on every student, as this is the backbone and driving force of our thriving community. Each teacher l've had has impacted my life greatly and in a unique way, and I could not be more thankful for that. The teacher that I would say changed my perspective on life the most is my orchestra teacher Ms. Reyner. Over the last 4 years, she has taken the time to delve into deep philosophical questions and given me insight on my life from career to purpose. She is wise beyond her years and I am so thankful for that.

Role Model: I would be lying if I didn't say that my role model is Jesus Christ. I aspire each day to live more in his Will and teachings, and every decision is guided by my faith. I am inspired to humble myself and my aspirations, and put my trust in Him alone. In scripture, so much is revealed to us about Jesus' nature, and this is an overflowing well of wisdom that I aspire and work towards every day.

What makes WACO Special: WACO is special for the things I have referenced before and so much more. I think it really boils down to this: Everyone cares way too much-- in a good way. Teachers and our community alike are so invested in each student's academic and personal growth, pushing them to be more committed and integral each day. This school has set a high standard for the people I will meet for the rest of my life, and I wish each student could grow up in an environment like WACO.

Advice to my Freshman Self: I would tell myself to stop trying to grow up so fast and to stop searching for my identity in the people around me or the things I do. I would say to myself that it's okay that I don't actually know what I want to do with the rest of my life, and I should look for purpose rather than mere passion. I would tell him that it's not a requirement to enjoy high school, and that these years are for learning how to overcome challenges later in life, not to build the perfect foundation for it. I would tell myself that I shouldn't wait around to make an impact on the world, because we are given the time in these years to impact those around us in a way that adults cannot.