In the spirit of seniors graduating, one is promised to look upon our alumni as they decide on what adventure they will embark on. Whether it be what major they chose, if they decide to pursue sports, or even what college they go to, it is common to look up to our alumni for inspiration. 

One of Perry’s alumni is Brock Purdy. Purdy graduated in 2018; he was awarded Arizona Gatorade Player of the Year in 2017 after setting several state records. After graduating, he continued his football career playing quarterback at Iowa State University. In the article “Mr. Irrelevant: 49ers select Iowa St. QB Brock Purdy to end 2022 NFL Draft,” the NFL staff reported that Purdy “started 46 games over four seasons with the Cyclones. Purdy completed 67.7 percent of his passes for 12,170 yards with 81 TDs and 33 INTs during his college career.”

Due to his impressive records, Purdy continued to earn more awards including “starting eight of 10 contests in 2018, garnering honorable mention All-Big 12 accolades and ranking sixth in the FBS in pass efficiency,” (Brock Purdy Draft and Combine Prospect Profile). 

Being in his last year at ISU, Purdy was looking to continue his football career in the National Football League. He was drafted to the San Francisco 49ers as the 4th string quarterback. Purdy was the last pick in the final seventh draft, obtaining the nickname of Mr. Irrelevant, a name given to the last pick of the NFL draft since 1976.

The 49ers have been making a comeback in the last few years, making it all the way to the Superbowl in 2022. Purdy is just one example of how far hard work can take you.