Taylor will graduate as one of the top two graduates in his class at Middle College High School, a school that almost didn't accept him two years ago.

As a sophomore at Galt High School, Taylor's request to go Middle College was originally denied because his grades were too high.

"They said, ‘I'm sorry, but our school is meant for people who have potential, but who aren't doing excellent,'" Taylor said. "And I had a 4.2."

Taylor's parents persisted, though, and Middle College eventually took him in.

Since then Taylor has developed his dual passion for the arts and mathematics.

During his time at Middle College he has helped put on several productions, including "Skitsophrenia," a series of student skits, "Elizabethan Idol," a take on the show American Idol with a Shakespearean twist, and "Around the World in 180 Minutes," a tour through the countries of the world.

Although he has a strong inclination toward theater, Taylor plans forge a career in mathematics.

A Latter-day Saint, Taylor will leave for a 2-year mission in January 2008. He doesn't know where his mission will send him yet, but he hopes that it will lead him out of the country.

When he returns, Taylor hopes to attend Brigham Young University as a math major and music minor, obtain his doctorate and pursue a career in the FBI as a mathematician.

Taylor said his life as a Mormon has been a significant impact on his life as a student. According to Taylor, the leaders of his church have not been short on advice when it comes to education. Taylor credits much of his diligence to the urging of those leaders.

"(Our church) emphasizes setting standards, setting goals and then not wavering from those goals," Taylor said.

Despite overachieving attitude, Taylor admits he has a few flaws. He said his love of order mixed with his impatience sometimes gets him into trouble, but that it's also what's attracted him to many of his passions.

An avid piano player, Taylor first became interested in music because of its structure and logic. He's had to learn from other musicians and performers how to tap into the emotional part of his mind.

"It was difficult to let go and not to play from my mind, but play from my heart," Taylor said.