Ashlynn Georgia Nielsen, born May 23, 2007, and daughter of Derrek and Abby Nielsen, finds the most memorable moment of her high school career to be her Senior year. Knowing it’s her last year of high school and all the changes about to happen excites her to no end. When not in school, Ashlynn spends time with friends around the city of Sioux Falls, making memories that she’ll cherish forever.
Born and raised in South Dakota, Ashlynn Nielsen has no plans of ever leaving the state she proudly calls home. Surrounded by country roads and open skies, she grew up with country music playing in the background, though she’s just as likely to sing along to a catchy pop tune. Ashlynn has a fascination with the spooky and supernatural, which is reflected in her love for The Walking Dead. At the same time, she’s deeply curious about how the human body works, with a particular interest in biology and physiology fueling her scientific side. If she could step into any movie role, Ashlynn would choose Belle from Beauty and the Beast-- drawn to her love of books, her graceful charm, and, of course, that enchanted castle. Her favorite color is red, a bold shade that matches her spirited personality. Though she loves nature, deep water unnerves her, sometimes keeping her from swimming in lakes-- but that doesn’t stop her from enjoying everything else the outdoors has to offer.
Looking ahead, Ashlynn Nielsen aspires to become a Doctor of Pharmacy. She plans to attend South Dakota State University (SDSU) and earn her doctorate, utilizing her passion for science and helping others into a lifelong career. Far from an isolationist, Ashlynn dreams of one day having a large family and surrounding herself with connection and purpose. Her life philosophy centers on exploration and growth. She encourages others to try new things, reminding them that life is short, and you might discover something you love when you least expect it. To underclassmen, she offers this advice: prioritize your own dreams and future, even if it means making hard choices or leaving people behind, because true happiness comes from staying true to yourself. Ashlynn lives by the words of Lou Holtz: “Life is ten percent what happens to you and ninety percent how you respond to it.”