You may see him on the football field, helping an opposing player to his feet after a hard fall. It would be common to see him explaining an English concept or a math problem to a struggling student. He is often volunteering his time in the community. It’s not the big things but the small ones that cause him to have such an effect on people.
Each year Ahlahasa surveys the senior class and asks them which senior has had the biggest impact on them, the school and the community. This year’s Impact Student is Caleb Gaudian.
At the beginning of his high school career, Gaudian had three simple goals: 1) do his best in academics; 2) be successful in sports; 3) have fun. Not only did he accomplish these things, but he also did them with a positive attitude, determination and a heart for others.
Junior Bryce DeBoer has been Gaudian’s good friend for the past eight years; they have also played high school football together for three years.
“If he sees someone struggling in football, he always goes over and helps them,” DeBoer said.
Wrestling and football coach Jon Hansen has coached Gaudian since elementary school. He has also experienced Gaudian’s impact in these sports.
“When I coached football his positive attitude and work ethic led by example,” Hansen said.
Through any challenge Gaudian faced in his high school sports career, he always did his best and never gave up.
“I always try to do the best that I can in everything I do,” Gaudian said.
This mind set has not only benefited Gaudian in his sports, but also other students who look to him as an example
“He showed the younger kids that through hard work and a drive to be better, you can succeed,” Hansen said.
Gaudian’s impact is not only in his sports. He is also involved in choir, chorale, Knowledge Bowl, National Honor Society, 4-H, Shinefest, The T.E.C program (Teens Encountering Christ) and his youth group.
Gaudian is motivated by his grandfather because of all that he has taught him.
“He showed me how to have a good work ethic,” Gaudian said.
Next year Gaudian will continue his education at Iowa State University, pursuing a degree in chemical engineering. From there he may go to medical school to become a chiropractor or Orthopedic surgeon. He would then like to get a good job, raise a family, live peacefully and stay in contact with friends.
“I want to serve the Lord wherever he calls me,” Gaudian said.
As students move through their lives, there will be those they come in contact with who will impact them; one of those being Caleb Gaudian. Without notice Gaudian led by example to change the lives of those around him. He has made an impact on Albert Lea High School and the students in it, and the footprints he left can never be erased.