From academics and athletics to community service and job experience, Tyler Bain has a packed schedule, all in preparation for college and life after. His efforts have already begun to pay off. In addition to various distinction awards, Tyler was named the Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week for Feb. 1.

Since the Scholar of the Week program began, more than $80,000 in scholarships have been awarded to more than 530 students. As Scholar of the Week, Tyler was awarded a $250 scholarship from Northern Electric and will have the chance to receive a $1,000 scholarship, or one of two $500 scholarships that will be given away at the annual Scholar of the Year banquet. 

An Aberdeen Central High School senior, Tyler was nominated for the Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week by CHS School Counselor and AP Coordinator Karlie Cooper.

“His ability to proactively set goals and commitment to achieving these is exceptional as a young adult,” Karlie said. “In ninth grade, he shared his academic goals of having a rigorous course load to help prepare him for a career in the medical field. Throughout all four years of high school, Tyler has been intentional about meeting regularly to review his progress and seek input on added opportunities.”

In middle school, Tyler decided he wanted to become a medical doctor. Since then, he has been self-driven to acquire all the experiences necessary to achieve his goal.

“I think it’s important to be well rounded. I try to spread myself out over a lot of activities, so I can be ready for life after high school,” said Tyler.

He hopes his extra efforts will help him get into top universities. While he doesn’t know what school he will be attending in the fall, his top choice are Washington University, Northwestern University, and University of South Dakota. Tyler plans to specialize in orthopedic surgery, and already has some experience in the medical field. He job shadowed at Sanford Health in Aberdeen, observing the resident orthopedic surgeon in the operating room. In addition, Tyler participated in the MedX program through Sanford to learn more about the various medical careers.

“Tyler’s achievements in his academics, athletics and community networking have allowed him to be a leader in many different vessels. For the students that want to take a highly rigorous course load, Tyler has been able to share his experiences and plan to help them map out an academic path for this goal,” said Karlie.

His dedication extends outside his classwork as well. Tyler regularly volunteers in the community.  He also created a community event called Even the Odds, which helps relieve the costs of purchasing sports equipment by collecting used items and redistributing through a giveaway. He also volunteers at the high school and joined the CHS Eagle Squad. Tyler helps freshman acclimated to high school and answers questions throughout the school year.

“I just want to tell everyone else in high school to take high school seriously and set up themselves up for success in the future,” Tyler said.

Tyler was featured on Dakota News Now during the 6 p.m. news on Monday, Feb. 2 and again on the Dakota News Now morning news on Tuesday, Feb. 3 between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. Scan the QR Code to see a replay of Tyler’s interview, as well as the other Scholar of the Week winners.