🎓 2025 Graduate Soren De Young

After graduating from St. John’s Lutheran School, Soren  embraced the full experience of public high school. He built strong connections through cross country and baseball—committing to both sports all four years—despite having no prior experience as a runner. He also expanded his social and academic world, deepening friendships and discovering new interests through choir, student government, and mock trial.

From Cadet Dreams to Academy Acceptance

Soren ’s journey to the Air Force Academy began with a campus visit in elementary school and intensified during his junior year. He navigated the demanding application process with the help of an admissions liaison he met through church. The process included multiple standardized tests, summer seminars at West Point and Annapolis, and the rigorous Candidate Fitness Assessment (CFA), which pushed him physically and mentally.

He also secured a congressional nomination—one of several he earned for military academies—after interviews, essays, and recommendations. A final medical clearance required a waiver for a prior knee injury. The moment he found out he was accepted, right before a chemistry test, Soren said, “I went absolutely ballistic—I was so excited that the person next to me was concerned,” Soren shared with a laugh. “My chemistry teacher had to reassure her I was okay. I was just really, really happy.”

This journey illustrates NVUSD’s vision of preparing students with real-world skills, persistence, and confidence to succeed in high-stakes, high-impact environments.

Academic Growth and Leadership

While Soren identifies history and math as his academic strengths he found unexpected growth in AP Honors English, where in-depth discussions helped him connect more deeply with literature and diverse viewpoints. He shared that his teachers were key: “Every year I had a teacher that was super insightful.”

Soren also served in student government since freshman year, taking on roles like Commissioner of Athletics and Commissioner of Elections. He helped organize spirit rallies, promoted inclusive school events, and ensured every sports team was represented in game-day themes. These leadership roles reflect NVUSD’s commitment to student voice and belonging as outlined in its 2024–2029 Strategic Plan.

Service and a Lasting Legacy

A proud Eagle Scout, Soren completed his capstone project at Alston Park—renovating cross-country trail markers and repairing a park kiosk used by the broader community. Inspired by his time as a Vintage cross country athlete, the project benefited runners from multiple high schools and left a lasting mark on a space he deeply valued.

Through years in Scouts, Soren developed the collaboration, project management, and problem-solving skills needed to navigate local systems and lead a successful effort.

Looking Ahead

At the Air Force Academy, Soren plans to study aeronautics or aerospace engineering. Following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather—both pilots—he hopes to one day fly for the Air Force.

Soren credits his family, especially his mother, father, and brother, for their constant encouragement, and his teachers for helping him push through when challenges arose. “They always told me to keep going,” he said.

Soren’s journey is a powerful example of dedication, service, and the kind of real-world readiness NVUSD’s Strategic Plan aims to foster in every student. We are proud to celebrate his accomplishments and excited to see how he takes flight in this next chapter.