LIVE EVERY DAY LIKE IT’S YOUR LAST. “What’s the point of being alive if you’re not really living,” an anonymous quote. This is Taylor’s favorite quote because it stands for what she values: living life the way you want to live it. This quote reminds Taylor to live every day like it’s her last.
Taylor Ann Marie Crook was born on August 30, 2004 in Blue Rapids, Kansas. When Taylor was born her parents, Kristina and Jeremy Crook, and her siblings, Colton Crook and Aaron Hazlett, welcomed her into the world with bright smiles and open arms. There are many people in Taylor’s life that have impacted her. “My friends, family, and Mrs. Smith have always been there for me. They’ve had my best interest at heart, and always encourage me to strive for more,” said Crook. Taylor enjoys spending time with her friends on the weekend. “It doesn’t matter what we’re doing, I always have fun when my friends are around. However, I especially like when we eat Asian food and listen to Left and Right by Charlie Puth.”
Taylor is very proud of herself for maintaining a 4.0 grade point average throughout high school, and she was very involved throughout high school. She was an active member in art club, journalism, FFA, vocal, and football. Taylor has also been a positive leader during high school, she was Class Vice President for one year and Art Club Vice President for one year. She also spends time outside of school volunteering at Hollenberg Pony Express Station in Hanover. Taylor is planning to continue her education at Kansas City Community College to study Mortuary Science. “Taylor’s ability to know what others need will get her far in life. She is very empathetic, and she is always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need,” said Taylor’s mentor, Mrs. Smith.
Taylor encourages underclassmen to not focus on the little things. “High school is just a short part of your life, don’t let the small details bog you down. You’re never alone, and high school will be over faster than you think.” In ten years, she plans to be an accomplished mortician who is able to travel the world. Mrs. Smith advises Taylor to not be her own worst critic. “Taylor is extremely hard on herself and she sets high expectations and goals for herself. With that being said, she is often too hard on herself. Sometimes she needs to take a breath and realize she has accomplished great things, and great things will continue to come because of her work ethic,” said Mrs. Smith. Taylor hopes she has left a positive impact on the community, and hopes to be remembered as someone who was smart, caring, and most importantly strong.
Article by Khloe Gunn