Taylor began life in a home filled with mental illness, substance abuse, and domestic violence. He spent his first 13 years living in nine places across four states. At times his mother would vanish for days, leaving Taylor to care for himself. He realized that if he wanted something, he would have to get it himself. He says his key to success is to wake up “hungry” each morning. He is captain of the school wrestling team and plays varsity soccer. He is finishing his qualifications to be a Certified Nursing Assistant, including weekly internships at nursing homes and hospitals to gain hands on experience. Taylor is employed and also is a Certified Soccer Referee. His counselor says that Taylor is one of her favorite students because he is mature, level-headed, always positive. Taylor will attend the University of Tennessee at Knoxville where he plans to study pre-Med.
