Editor’s note: This is the ninth in a series of feature stories celebrating the Class of 2026 valedictorians and salutatorians at the five high schools in Shelby County.
FAIRLAND – Aiden Mitchell has a vision for his life.
The Triton Central Class of 2026 Co-Valedictorian with Brynne Aukerman wants to direct films. Mitchell knows accomplishing that dream is challenging. That’s why he has a fall-back plan.
Mitchell will double major this fall at Indiana University in Psychology and Film.
“My whole life, everyone has told me (Psychology) is something I should do. It made sense,” explained Mitchell. “I can talk to people, and I can get people to open up. And I’ve always been fascinated with how the brain works. The interest is definitely there.
“I would love to be a director. That would be a dream come true. I have been watching so many more movies lately and it feels right. I think it’s something I’ve always wanted to do. You only live once, you might as well take a chance, and college is the time to explore.”
To fulfill his dream, Mitchell looked at several options and settled on Butler.
“Butler sounded good and it was pretty cheap compared to what it normally would be,” said Mitchell. “It didn’t have the film aspect, and something just felt off.”
Mitchell eventually found focus at IU.
“Cost played a part for sure, and IU offered so many more opportunities than these other schools for half the price,” he said. “If felt stupid not to go there. All my really close friends were going. That is what I worried about. I didn’t want to base going to college around my friends. I think I looked into that too much.”
Mitchell knows IU will be much different from the Triton Central community he grew to love.
“I love talking to people, so I am not worried about that. I was worried that I will feel like just another student,” he said. “I like the 1-on-1 with teachers; that is probably my biggest concern. I am really excited to be around people from different backgrounds.”
Mitchell has a musical background, performing in TC bands for several years. He also served as Drum Major for the marching band. He participated in Spanish Club, Academic Super Bowl and was a member of the National Honor Society.
Mitchell is the oldest of three children for Mitch and Nickole Mitchell.
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