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FeaturesJune 27, 2024

Meet Luke Ballin, Advance High's 2024 Valedictorian, heading to UMKC for architecture. Active in leadership, sports, and clubs, Luke shares his journey and advice for underclassmen.

Luke Ballin
Luke BallinNathan Gladden ~ ngladden@semissourian.com

Advance High School

Parents: Thad and Janine Ballin.

Post-graduation plans: Attend University of Missouri-Kansas City to pursue a degree in architecture.

High school activities: class officer (president, vice president), Beta Club, FFa, Student Government, Quiz Bowl, cross country and basketball.

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Favorite high school experience: Maturing alongside the greatest friends I could ask for.

Biggest role model: My grandfather, Dennis Lorch.

Advice to underclassmen: Don't get caught up in foolish pride. Rekindle friendships. Ensure that in the future you won't regret a divide between yourself and a friend.

Three words to describe high school: Transformative, pure and bittersweet.

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