Mikey Hjelmen

I am a senior at Austin High School. High school hasn’t been the easiest journey, but it has been very rewarding. My academics were my number one priority so I wasn’t involved in many programs.

Some activities I have been involved in are cheerleading and being a part of the REACH program. I have done multiple things in the community with REACH such as; speaking to the I.J Holton students about peer pressure, presenting to various community groups about REACH and its intentions, being a youth leader for Youth Frontiers, and mentoring and tutoring other students in REACH.

After I graduate I will attend Riverland Community College and get my AA degree. After I finish at Riverland I will transfer to an undecided university where I will major in Psychology and Sociology.

In 10 years I hope to be working in an inpatient rehabilitation facility with adolescents who are chemically dependent. After college I hope to travel to places such as; Machu Picchu, Greece, and Bora Bora.

Someone who has had a huge influence in my life is Thor Bergland. He is one of the REACH teachers and he also used to be my school counselor. Thor has helped me turn my life around and be the best I can be. He is very supportive and is always encouraging me to do my best in school.