Potential Magazine November 2014 | Page 38

teen spotlight photography by Lauren Childs stats 15, Sophomore at Perdue Preparatory School of Business notable 4.0 GPA; Dual Enrollment student; Autauga County Teen Court; Youth Leadership Autauga County; House of Representatives Page; University of Alabama Ambassador; Tutor favorite quote “Each action taken by a man must correlate with his conviction. For a man without guidance and due diligence is a man without sentiment.” how it began As a homeschooled student, Brandon Perdue was able to selfdirect his studies, which enabled him to advance to dual enrollment at the age of 13. “He currently attends Faulkner University, the University of Alabama, and Grand Canyon University simultaneously with a 4.0 GPA at all three colleges,” said his mom Anita. Brandon’s unique drive to succeed extends beyond the classroom. He’s worked with several organizations throughout the community, including the National Prescription Drug Takeback initiative, Teen PALS, Eastdale Mall Teen Team and Youth Leadership among others. He’s also participated in the Pass Leadership Camp, the NCFCA Speech Camp and has been nominated for the Youth Volunteer Activist and Presidential Award. “From a young age, my mom taught me how to be independent, responsible and decisive—I would not be who I am today if it weren’t for her early guidance,” Brandon said. what’s next Brandon hopes to find a career that meshes his interests in conservative politics and public business. brandon perdue PG (parental guidance) rating Brandon said he looks up to his parents’ unwavering faith and strength, and that they taught him that “negative influences can contribute to your growth or degradation.” Montgomery, AL parents’ perspective Anita said her parents came from very humble childhoods, both working on family farms and helping raise their siblings. “My father obtained only a third-grade education and my mother, a sixth-grade education,” Anita said. Despite their backgrounds, they both became business owners later in life. Through them, Anita learned to value education and its ability to eliminate many struggles in life. The No. 1 piece of advice Anita learned from her parents— “You don’t leave a dog out in the rain; and that applies to people, too.” parent-to-parent Anita is thankful for th