This Senior Spotlight will highlight Peyton Heller. Peyton and I have shared multiple classes over the past couple of years when I have gotten to know him. I hope in reading this article, more people will get to know Peyton and all he brings to the Capital High School community.
Born in Sandy Hook, Connecticut, Peyton grew up away from the Pacific Northwest. He lived in Connecticut until 2020 when his family moved to Olympia. Growing up in Sandy Hook, 30–40 minutes away from Manhattan, New York, trips to the Big Apple were common. His favorite thing to do in the big city was finding good places to eat, but he also said there was a lot of fun stuff to do just exploring the city.
Peyton and I shared a lively Chemistry class where I got to know him last year. We had many projects and labs in that class, and I got to know Peyton as dependable. You could always count on him to be there, work hard, and make our work enjoyable.
One of Peyton’s favorite classes in high school was his Japanese class. In his time in high school, he has enjoyed emerging himself in the language and culture. Peyton took 4 years of Japanese during his time at Capital, gaining a strong foundation in the language for future use.
Next year, Peyton will be going to Boise State University to study in the field of film. Peyton has taken multiple years of film classes in high school, and it is among his favorite subjects. He was introduced to film at an early age by his grandmother and has been creating and editing films ever since. He said that he enjoys film because of how creative it allows him to be in a subject that he enjoys. Peyton also tested in IB film during his time at Capital, showing his love and dedication to the subject.
Going to college is an exciting time for all seniors, and Peyton is no exception. He said the thing that excites him most about college is the experience of going outside his comfort zone and moving away to live on his own. Boise is a new place for Peyton, and he is excited to get out into the town and see what college life brings.
Peyton is also involved in activities outside of school as well. He is a member of the Capital soccer team and has played the sport since he was six years old. Peyton fell in love with soccer due to the joy of everyone around him. The best part of soccer in Peyton’s mind is the team aspect. If everyone is working together toward a common goal and having fun, soccer is a very enjoyable sport to play.
When asked about what he wants his future to hold, Peyton first cited stability as a goal. He wanted a stable life and a job he would enjoy. He also wanted to travel and see the world. Having a job that allows him to enjoy other parts of his life is important to him.
