Let's hear it for our next PCHS Class of 2022 Senior Spotlight, Austin Hendee!

Austin is the son of Jerald Hendee and Jennifer Pigg. 

During his high school years, Austin has been involved in football, FFA, and currently is in DECA. (DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.)

After graduation, Austin plans to attend Grand River Tech's building trades program for a year. After a year at Grand River, Austin would like to finish up his education in Nevada, Missouri at Missouri Welding Institute to earn a degree in welding. In 5-10 years, Austin sees himself having his own business and making the best of his life. 

Austin's advice for incoming freshmen is, "Live it up. You only have four years left and you can either make the best of it or you will regret it. Some students don’t want to be at school because they think they hate it, but if you make the best of it and try to enjoy it, it’s really not all that bad. I wish I had been more involved with sports and activities but I also love to work. Get involved and find a good balance."

We asked Austin what his funniest memory and most memorable moment at Putnam has been. He said, "8th-grade year when I was in the talent show with Mr.Hougan. I thought it was the funniest thing ever. Now that I look back on it, it really was the funniest thing ever, because I would have never done it if it wasn’t for my friends telling me I should. Now they tease me about it."

Austin says, "Mr. Harlan has made the biggest impact on me at Putnam. He has always pushed me to do my best and he is a great role model. Building Trades was definitely my favorite class. It's the type of work I want to be doing after I graduate and it is always a great time. But there is always a time for seriousness and laughs in that class."

Congratulations, Austin! We wish you all the best in your next chapter!