When Alli Jepsen was young, she dreamed of becoming a fashion designer. Now, as the next-to- last salutatorian, she wants to pursue a career in the medical field. In the four years at PR, she has excelled in academics and enjoyed doing it. “I take pride not only in the fact that I was able to maintain my momentum as a student, but also that I had a blast and made lifelong friends along the way.”

When asked about what would she miss the most about high school, it was the meaningful relationships with her teachers and how they have been her role models and biggest supporters. She strongly believes that “the teachers at Prairie Ridge dedicate themselves to their students’ success, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without their help.”

From freshman year, she has seen her peers grow and is amazed by the amount of talent and personality they have. She has always aimed to reach her full potential as a student, but she didn’t expect to receive this honor. “I’m humbled by all of the brilliant students around me who also deserved this title.”

Alli has been a part of NHS, SNHS, and also Varsity Poms. Anyone would be surprised by how she managed to do it all, especially because of the competitive pressure there was to maintain a high GPA. Though she is honored by the distinction, Alli believes that elimination of the school rank will bring relief to the student body. “All students should be recognized as much more than a number out of 335,” she explained.

In the fall, Alli will attend Miami of Ohio as part of the honors program and the Premedical Scholars program. “I’m going to strive to stand out academically, immerse myself in activities on campus, and spend my free time enjoying downtown Oxford!”