Senior Snapshot: Hayden Steffens

Hayden Steffens has been a part of the BT community for three years, joining the school as a sophomore. In that time, BT has become a place where she’s grown academically while finding a sense of belonging. Hayden values the tight-knit community and support that BT has offered her, and she appreciates how easy it is to connect with teachers and peers. Overall, she’s grateful that the school made her feel welcomed and supported when she moved. At BT, one of Hayden’s favorite traditions is the house system, where she has grown a connection with classmates she might not have otherwise met and fueled friendly competition for House competitions like the Cup at the end of the year.

Hayden has been involved in both on-campus and off-campus activities throughout her time at BT. At school, she participates in cheer, golf, yearbook, journalism, DECA, National Art Honor Society, and National Honor Society. Outside of BT, she plays lacrosse through Duchesne, an activity that has brought her some of her most meaningful high school memories. One standout moment came last year when her lacrosse team won its rival game, as it marked the last time she was able to play alongside her friend Imaya before she graduated.

Academically, one of Hayden’s favorite classes was AP Language and Composition. Even though it was a challenge, the course helped strengthen her skills as a writer. Two teachers who had a lasting impact on her high school experience were Mrs. Harms and Dr. Low. Mrs. Harms helped Hayden truly understand science by making material accessible and engaging, even in difficult classes such as Junior year Chemistry. Dr. Low sparked her deeper curiosity for learning, which encouraged her to value her own opinions and ideas, something she knows will follow her even after graduation.

When reflecting on her high school years, Hayden says her favorite grade was Junior year as it marked a turning point when she began discovering who she was and envisioning what she wanted for her future. She’s especially proud of learning how to balance her academic responsibilities with her personal life and out-of-school activities, even when she had frequent absences at certain times. When asked to describe her journey in one word, Hayden chose one word: “growth.”

As graduation approaches, Hayden feels a mix of excitement and nerves. She’s eager to begin college and start a new chapter of her life, but she also knows she may struggle with homesickness because she deeply values time spent with her family. Her top college choice is the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis, where she hopes to major in psychology or human rights on a pre-law track, with plans to attend law school in the future.

Hayden’s biggest role model throughout high school has been her mom. As the first person in her family to attend college, her mother raised Hayden and her sister as a single parent while working full-time. Hayden admires her strength and character, which constantly push her to try hard in school and out.

Looking back, Hayden knows she has changed significantly since freshman year. She’s grown mentally, gained clarity about what she wants her life to look like, and learned not to let distractions or unnecessary drama interfere with her goals. To underclassmen, she offers thoughtful advice about prioritizing your future.

What Hayden will miss most about high school is the lack of full adult responsibility. While she’s already juggling many commitments, she’s grateful she hasn’t fully had to face everything adulthood brings. During the school year, she likes to unwind by spending time with family and friends or staying physically active, but she likes to adapt to what she needs most at the moment.

As she looks ahead to life beyond BT, Hayden is most excited to travel with her friends this summer and take time to relax before college begins. Overall, Hayden’s excited to close her high school chapter, having learned a lot so she can step confidently into the next one.