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  • Essays

Kylee McManis

2/28/2019

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Kylee McManis
Interview by Zoey Joseph
Nomination & Photography by Alyssa Chappell Photography
Florida
Issue 15

The Nomination: Kylee is a type one diabetic, which is a life-threatening disease that can be very difficult to live with. Living with this disease can be a daily struggle, the responsibility, and the discipline that she must have for a "normal life" is great and can be hard to maintain at times.
In a recent session with Kylee, she proudly displayed her Dexcom CGM device, it really made an impact on some of my viewers and hopefully will give others her age the encouragement they needed to not be embarrassed of who they are. Over the years, I have watched Kylee grow into a very beautiful, strong, smart young woman! I look forward to seeing her grow as an adult and see how she touches others and helps them grow with type one diabetes.

Do you think growing up with type one diabetes has changed you in good ways or bad?
I think it has 100% changed me. Bad because sometimes, especially when I was first diagnosed, and I was sick, it would keep me from doing normal things that all my friends were doing. Even now that can happen occasionally. But also, good because it has made me more independent and responsible and stronger than some other kids my age.

For readers that might not be familiar with a Dexcom CGM device, can you explain what it is and what it does?
I wear a Dexcom CGM G6 to continuously monitor my blood sugar without having to prick my finger to draw blood and use a blood sugar meter. The Dexcom is amazing and has made managing my diabetes so much easier. You can see the trending blood sugar in real time right on your phone. I can catch it before it gets too high or too low. It has helped me a lot! Also, I can share my readings with my mom my doctor wirelessly!!!! It is really a great tool for diabetics and has made it easier to manage.

Tell me a little bit about how you have been able to maintain a mainly "normal life" Is there anyone that has really helped you along the way?
My mom has been the number one person that has always helped me through this. She’s been my guide along the journey with all the ups and downs, and when I wanted to give up, she was there to help me make it through and give me the encouraging words that I needed to hear to pick myself back up and push forward.

What are some of the activities or after school clubs you are involved in? Does your disease get in the way of them?
Cheerleading for two years. There were times that I would have to sit out until my sugar leveled back out. It is something that I always have to be aware of and be PREPARED for. I have to have things with me to eat or drink for emergencies if it went low during a game or even just at school, or driving, or anything really. I even have to carry an emergency shot called glucagon that is needed in an emergency situation.
There have been a couple times where I have had miss work because of my blood sugar. I have apart time job at our local hardware store. :)

Is there any advice you would like to give to other viewers of the magazine that might be struggling with the same or similar diseases?? 
It’s hard, living with a life-threatening disease and its especially hard during the teenage years. But it will get easier, and at the end of the storm there is a rainbow. I know it’s difficult when you feel so different from everyone else. You feel like you just need a break! Don’t give up. There is so much exciting technology that we have seen in just the past few years helping to make our lives more normal. Each time you have a rough day or week, just know you will come out stronger on the other end. And know you are not alone, and maybe by just showing your strength and your courage you could help someone else that’s feeling the same as you do. You could help them feel stronger and proud of themselves too!

I really admire your ability to keep true to yourself and not let diabetes take you down. Not only that, but from what I have heard, you seem like an amazing person with a strong ability to influence. Do you think you would ever want to speak publicly about the challenged and what you have done to help overcome them? 
Thank you, Zoey,! That’s sweet of you to say! And yes! I would love to help others overcome challenges they may be experiencing and talk to others about experiences I’ve had that may help them relate.

Kylee was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine. 
Click here to buy issue 15
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know.
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Raven Tikka

2/27/2019

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Raven Tikka
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination by Paige Lemieux
Photography by Launa Penza Photography
California
Issue 18 | Sports

Raven Tikka is an inspiration to all that meet her. She is a competitive cheerleader and a World Champion on Californian Allstars Team Reckless. She has demonstrated her love for cheering as she recovers from a major ACL (knee) surgery. Recently she participated as an All-American cheerleader representing the United States in London's New Year Day Parade. She is the Captain of her high school team and a member of three teams covering cheer, stunt and competitive cheer. She also enjoys coaching. Her favorite are special needs cheerleaders, as they have so much love for the sport. When not doing cheer, she enjoys watching the Bachelor, hanging with friends and volunteering.

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​When did you start cheerleading and why?

I started cheering when I was 11 years old for Westlake Braves Youth Football and Cheer. I loved sideline cheer so much that when the season ended, I started looking for a gym to start tumbling so I could gain new skills, and joined CheerForce. I’ve been cheering ever since. I’m currently a member of California Allstar Team Reckless. It’s a level 6 international team and we are the 2018 World Champions. I still do sideline cheer for Oak Park High School as well as the newly recognized cheer sport called STUNT. I cheer for fun and I cheer competitively, but mostly I cheer because I love the physical and emotional challenges the sport offers. 


Tell me about your experience walking in the New Year’s Eve London parade!

Being an All American Cheerleader is such an honor. The experience was amazing meeting cheerleaders from all over the United States, coming together to show our spirit. Walking the parade route was super fun, yet nerve racking at the same time. I loved taking in the sites of London and enjoying the winter weather. The highlight of the trip for me was watching the fireworks over The London Tower Bridge.
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​Other than coaching special needs kids, what age levels do you like coaching best and why?

That’s a tough question. I love kids and all the energy they bring. But I also enjoy the technical skills that come with higher skill levels. I like to work with the younger children sharing the love I have for cheer with them. I want them to have someone to look up to! I like working with the senior level teams helping them improve as they get older and better in the sport of cheer. I think that’s why coaches coach multiple teams, so they get a mix of skills, patience and chaos.

What were some things you did while you were recovering from your ACL injury?

Last year I destroyed my knee and my season with one tumbling pass. It’s taught me that tough times don’t last. Tough people do! I continued to go to practice for my three teams, plus physical therapy. Recovery is a slow heal and I learned how team extends beyond being on the mat. 
Do you plan on continuing to cheer in the future?

I can’t imagine my life without cheer. I’m focusing on getting my skills back and looking forward to college tryouts this spring. I would like to cheer as long as my body and life allows me to. 
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​What is your favorite season of the bachelor and why?
I loved Arie’s season. How he got in his head about what he thought would be better at the time (Becca) and forgot to follow his heart. It was so clear Lauren was the one. I’m so happy they got married in January and that Becca found love too. 

Raven will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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DJ King

2/27/2019

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​DJ King
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Main Photography by Rebekah Gregg Photography
Georgia
Issue 18 | Leader
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The Nomination: DJ King is a leader on his football team and basketball team (team captain). He strives to be an example to his little sister and he's an encouragement to his mom and his friends. Leadership is a major theme in his life and is extremely important to him.
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​When did you careers in football and basketball start?

I started playing basketball around the age of three. It was like an everyday thing to me until about first grade, which is when I stared my football career. 
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Image by Rebekah Gregg Photography
Why do you think you are considered a “True Influencer”?

I believe that I am a true influencer because of my leadership and positivity. No matter what I’ll always try and pull the best out of someone even when they feel they are at their very worst. 
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Tell me about your younger sister. 

My sisters name is Aryelle, she’s in the eighth grade and plays basketball as well. She is my motivation for just about everything I do, I’m the middle child so I know what not to do from my older brother and I know what to pass Down to my younger sister so I feel as i can set a good example for her then she can expect to be very very fortunate in the future. 

What are some of the leadership opportunities you have had?

Every team I’ve ever been on I’ve Been the captain, I’ve been a part of student council in middle school, Chick-fil-A leadership academy, I’ve been in charge of small groups at basketball camps, I try to be a leader in the classroom as well 
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Looking forward, where do you see yourself in the next 5 years? 

In the next five years I see myself hopefully entering the draft but if not then being a successful business man. 

DJ will be published in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
Click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know.
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Lia Kurkimilis

2/27/2019

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​Lia Kurkimilis
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nomination & Photography by TAP Photography
Issue 17 | Music
North Carolina

​The Nomination: Lia Kurkimilis plays the piano and is the flute section leader in concert band and woodwind section leader in marching band. She is 4th in her class with a 4.4 g.p.a. and has volunteered over 200 hours. She intends to be a medical examiner, specializing in forensic pathology.
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​How did you become so interested in playing multiple instruments? Tell us about them.
My desire to play multiple instruments stemmed from my inheritance of my mom’s flute. I started out pretty poorly, incapable of playing even three notes-- but the more I used music to cope, the more I improved, and I knew I wanted to express myself through other outlets. I became interested in playing the piccolo when I joined marching band. It was such a bold instrument that I knew I had to learn it. I have always loved the piano; it’s my dad’s favorite instrument, and there is something really cool about being able to sit down at a piano anywhere and play. 

If given the opportunity, would you teach younger students how to play instruments?
I would definitely take the opportunity to teach younger students how to play the instruments I play. I am the flute section leader of my concert band, and I look forward to sectionals in which I can work with the other flutes. Furthermore, every Thursday for the first half of lunch, I meet with three to four underclassmen in order to teach and guide them on playing the piccolo. It is fulfilling to be able to share something I love so much while learning a couple things myself. 
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​How do you maintain your outstanding GPA of a 4.4 with your extracurricular activities?
I balance my academics and extracurricular activities through a structured schedule. If a deadline is not in my planner, it’s not in my brain. As long as I stay slightly ahead of my homework, I will have time to do the things I enjoy; more work now means more play later. 

Tell us about some of your volunteer opportunities that landed you with over 200 hours service.
I have volunteered with many clubs and organizations, but some of my favorites have been my work through the Yancey Humane Society and the VolunTEEN program at Blue Ridge Regional Hospital. I instantly see the results of my work at the humane society, where simply walking a dog can coax them out of the fear of abuse. At the hospital, I served in the ER and main lab, helping patients on the front lines as well as behind the scenes. 

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What are your plans for the future?
I am fortunate enough to have received an academic scholarship from Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where I plan to major in pre-medicine biology. I will then study pathology in medical school and forensic pathology in a state-based fellowship. I am passionate about advocating for the victims of homicides, suicides, and accidents, who can no longer speak for themselves; I will strive to bring justice to them and comfort and closure to their families.

Lia will be featured in Issue 17 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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​Brianna Logsdon

2/27/2019

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​Brianna Logsdon
Interview with Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Tammy Howell
Kentucky
Issue 15

The Nomination: Brianna Logsdon, from Pleasure Ridge Park H.S, has been a member of my Senior Portrait Rep Team since the spring. Her smart, witty humor makes all our sessions memorable. She's had a lifelong love of sports like softball, volleyball, and bowling and is active in helping special needs kids enjoys sports as well. She is a leader of a new school club to support and raise funds for Special Olympics and participates in Unified Bowling, where she partners with a special needs athlete. She's had to overcome many obstacles thrown in her path, but she's done so with an amazing attitude and is an inspiration to her teammates.
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​Tell me about your Senior Portrait Rep Team:

Our rep team is orchestrated by photographer, Tammy Howell. Tammy is truly amazing and never fails to make you smile or laugh at just the right times. She works hard to make sure that our photo sessions are the best whether it’s helping us choose our outfits or picking just the right place to take your pictures or making sure that every last-minute detail is perfect just before the pictures taken.

How did you become interested in bowling?

I grew up in a family where bowling was a big sport, so as a child I couldn’t remember a time that I wasn’t in the bowling alley. From there I just grew an interest on my own with the sport. I started bowling around the age three and took a break for five years between ages of 10 and 15, and then started back up again my sophomore year of high school. Bowling is really an amazing sport which allows me to build bonds with people that I could’ve never imagine myself building a bond with, given me leadership skills, and it personally just give me an outlet from the world around me.

What has the role of team captain meant to you?

It all started my Junior year of high school when the bowling team named me team captain. Being team captain helped me understand responsibility and that it’s not an “I” game but a “team” game. I learned to look out for the interest of everyone and not just myself. Today I started the idea that it is okay for special needs students at PRP to bowl with our teams. At PRP we have several unified sports and strive to let our special needs kids have the same opportunity as any other student at our school. At PRP I am one of two leaders of our club, Inclusion Revolution, where we organize fundraisers to help pay for things such as the kids sports and equipment and organize activities such as peer tutors taking the kids out to a basketball game, a movie or anything just to get them out of the house and hang out. 

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 What are some ways you get teens involved in their community and help?

I encouraged teens to get involved in their schools as there’s so much that you’re capable of doing and your own school, your community. I personally took a strong interest in building relationships with the special needs kids at my high school, Pleasure Ridge Park (PRP). I have opened the door to allow special needs kids to bowl with our high school teams and allowed them to have the chance to bowl in the KHSAA Unified Tournaments.

What are your plans after graduation?

I plan to attend a four-year college where I will major in Chemistry and minor in Criminal Justice. With my chemistry degree I want to work in forensic sciences or in a medical research lab, researching ideas that could help special needs kids and adults live a more comfortable life where they can be treated just like anyone else. I also plan to bowl at which ever four-year college I may attend.


Brianna was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine. 
click here to buy issue 15
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Swimsuit Fashion Through the Years

2/26/2019

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Swimsuit Fashion Throughout the Years
By Julia Ischinger
​Pennsylvania
Issue 15

​Julia Ischinger takes us on an inside look of the evolving swimsuit in this article of Shopping with Julia.

​Swimsuits have been in existence for about a century. Through the years, the fashion of swimwear has changed drastically for both boys and girls.

1920’s-1930’s
In the 1920’s-1930’s, most swimsuits were made out of wool, which often made the swimsuits heavy. Swimsuits became tighter and shorter, and women often had to be on the lookout for beach police, because if their bathing suits were too short, it could result in a fine or even jail. Men and women swimsuits were very similar and often consisted of a swim tank with a skirt or shorts. The men and women usually wore shoes when they were swimming. By the 1930’s, most men began to wear tanks with swim briefs.

1940’s
During the 1940’s, swimsuits were no longer made out of wool. Two-piece bathing suits also became very popular. However, women still wore one-pieces, which was often like a very short, tight dress. For men, swim briefs were still a trend, but swim trunks were rising in popularity. Men usually would wear swim trunks, some with a tropical design, and a matching short-sleeved button up shirt.

1950’s
In the 1950’s, the fabric to make swimsuits improved. Women usually wore a strapless, one-piece with a short pencil skirt. Swimsuit colors and patterns also became more bold. For men, briefs were still in fashion but knee-length boxer swimsuits became more popular.

1960’s-1970’s
During the 1960’s and 1970’s, bold-colored, high-rise bikinis and one- piece suits were very common. For women, bikinis with cover-ups became very popular, For men, colorful, patterned, and short swim briefs were still very popular.

1980’s-1990’s
Bathing suit fashion became more like it is today, with women bathing suits becoming shorter, and men’s suits becoming longer. Bikinis with string-bottoms became popular for women. For men, long swim trunks became the trend.

Present
Today, there are many different swimsuits available for many different body types and it seems to be a matter of personal preference. For example, younger women may choose to wear a bikini because it is more revealing, while older women tend to wear a one-piece. It is about comfort and how much one wants to show their body. Men seem to have it much easier, and continue to wear swim trunks that are basically shorts. Throughout the years, fashion has changed, including what people wear swimming or sunbathing on a hot, summer day.
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Summer Steele

2/26/2019

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Summer Steele
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Photography by Alyssa Chappell Photography.
Florida
Issue 15

The Nomination: I have known Summer for years and it was such an honor to be able to photograph her for her senior year. I am nominating Summer for the inspiring teen athlete because of her love for her horse. Riding horses, taking care of all the animals, and living on farm land is a lot of hard work. Summer loves spending time with all of her animals from her precious dog Jake to her horse Yager. Yager is approximately 10 years old they have had him about five years Summer's uncle adopted him from the mustang round up auction in Ocala. Yager was a bottle baby that was separated in the round up out west and adopted at an auction. Yager has a tattoo on his neck that signifies a mustang.

Hi my name is Summer Anne Steele. I am 17 years old and a senior at Keystone Heights High School graduating with honors. I am a customer service manager at a local grocery store. I have lived in Florahome my whole life and our family lives on a 50 acre ranch we call “Chaos & Critters Ranch”. We have had many different varieties of animals: cows, horses, goats, alpacas, chickens, dogs, cats, and rabbits. I became interested in horseback riding from the time I could walk. Yager is a 10-year-old mustang that was separated from his mom in the round up in Nevada and was raised as a bottle baby. While I love horses, I love dogs just as much. I saved my money at the age of 15 and adopted my first dog, Jake from a rescue in Brooksville, FL. He is an apple head tan colored chihuahua that is absolutely spoiled rotten with a feisty attitude.

My mom says kind of like me. :) I have always enjoyed living on a farm and wouldn’t want it any other way. It is peaceful, quiet, and relaxing living in the country. My chores over the years have been feeding up the animals, filling their water troughs, giving them baths, worming the animals, bottle feeding a baby calf that was rejected, mucking out the stall, assist my mom in giving shots to the animals, collecting eggs and dragging the field with my four-wheeler. On occasion I volunteer at the local Humane Society by walking dogs and help keep our little library stocked with books in the Florahome Palmetto Park. I have always planned to become a veterinarian for small breed animals. However, I am not completely sure that is what I want to do with my life just yet. I will attend Sante Fe College this spring and then transfer to University of Florida in Gainesville.

Summer was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine. 
click here to buy issue 15
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know.
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Austin Taylor

2/25/2019

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Austin Taylor
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination by Stephanie Taylor
Photography by Amanda Reed
West Virginia
Issue 17 | Volunteer

​The Nomination: Austin Taylor is a senior at Mingo Central High with a 4.7 GPA and is an exemplary student and outstanding citizen who is very committed to his academics and serving our community. Austin is very involved in community service but one dear to his heart is the We Can program that assists underprivileged children in our community. 
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Image by Rebecca Farmer
​How did you become involved in the We Can program, and can you tell us a little about it?In 9th grade I was recommended by several teachers to join the We Can Camp. 
The We Can program is a three-day camp where as a counselor I attempt to make the kids have one of the best summer experiences of their life from taking them swimming to sneaking them midnight snacks.
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Image by Rebecca Farmer
​What other kind of community service projects have you done? I have worked throughout my school years with things like student government, student ambassadors, beta club, and HSTA club. I also help around the community with the food drives, seasonal community dinners, and the Mingo Kids New View. The Mingo Kids New View is a foster program where we look at cases and attempt to help the child. This can sway from helping with the actual case to providing comfort to the child.
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What are some of the benefits of maintaining a 4.7 GPA and what tips can you provide to maintain such good grades?
With a 4.7 GPA I have more opportunities in college and more colleges are interested in me because of what I can do. 
My biology teacher taught me how to study my sophomore year and since then my grades have improved tremendously. What I have noticed is that most kids read over the material, which is not a good way to study. She taught me how to write things out repeatedly to really learn the material. 
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Image by Stephanie Taylor
What do you plan on doing after high school?
After high school I will be attending the University of Charleston for a degree in dual Biology and Chemistry pre-professional. After that, I will be learning at the medical school in Lewisburg with a focus in Pathology. After med school, I will focus in on Forensic Pathology and take the board exams which certifies me as a Forensic Pathologist and work my way to become a Medical Examiner.

Austin will be featured in Issue 17 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Claire Plath

2/25/2019

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Claire Plath
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination and Photography by Alicia Crosson Photography
California
Issue 18 | Volunteer

The Nomination: I am privileged to nominate one of my inspiring teens for this special opportunity! Claire is currently a sophomore in high school, on her school's tennis team, involved in various clubs, planning committees, and leadership teams through school and church. She is highly respected by her friends, classmates, and teachers. Claire also helps coach Cheer for younger girls in her community. One quality I would love to focus on in Claire is her kind, loving heart towards people of all different sizes, races, needs, and ethnicities. Claire volunteers her time during the summer to help assist those with special needs at a special needs camp. She has also participated as a "buddy" to guests with special needs for a National Prom Organization called Night to Shine, through the Tim Tebow Foundation. Claire truly radiates God's love and kindness to the world, and it would be so wonderful to see her being recognized in this way. Thank you so much for your consideration, and for providing this special opportunity for teens to be recognized with all of their wonderful characteristics and gifts to the world! ​
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​What was your experience at Night to Shine like?

My experience at Night to Shine was very unforgettable and heartwarming. It was amazing to be able to experience the pure joy my date felt as we spent the whole time dancing, singing, and laughing the night away. The friendship that I was able to build with my date at Night to Shine was so uplifting and special, and I hope to continue to volunteer every year!


Tell me a little bit about the various activities you do with those who have special needs.

Night to Shine is something I help out with every year and is an annual event for those with special needs where they get to experience their own prom by being paired with a volunteer for the night. It is a ministry that was founded by Tim Tebow a few years back, and now more than 655 churches across the world host it! It is put together to be exactly like a prom from red carpet, to limos, to dinner, to dancing, and last but not least, having all the guests crowned kings and queens of the prom!

Another activity I help with is the buddy program at my church, where volunteers are trained to be paired up with children who have special needs, so they are able to attend church while having a “buddy” with them for extra support.
 
Lastly, one of the biggest highlights of my life is attending Camp Barnabas. Camp Barnabas is a Christian camp in Missouri for those with special needs where they get to spend one full week paired up with a missionary and can share an amazing experience through fun and spiritual activities. Campers come from all over the U.S to attend, they look forward to it every year!

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​What does it mean to become a missionary in June for Camp Barnabas, and what do you do as a missionary?
At Camp Barnabas, I was selected to be a missionary which is a buddy for a camper you are matched up with for that week. The role of a missionary begins with months of training and learning how to serve and be there for the campers in the ways that are needed. At camp, you are with your camper 23 hours a day, and with the role of a missionary comes great responsibility and patience. It is a physical, mental, and emotional rollercoaster while serving as a missionary, due to the complexity of needs a camper may have. Some campers may be nonverbal, while others may have serious physical limitations, but no matter who you are paired up with, the bond you build with your camper is truly life changing. My camper last summer was named Emily and she has been attending Camp Barnabas for years. After the week I spent with her, she became my dear best friend. Emily was the most patient, kind, compassionate, and encouraging person I had ever met. I was able to create a very close bond with her and after the week we spent together, we keep in touch! She will always hold a special place in my heart, as will all the memories and friendships made at Camp Barnabas. 


What have you been able to learn by working with those who have special needs? 

While working with special needs I have been able to learn to remain positive and patient through any trials I go through. The joy of being able to work with those with special needs has impacted my view on life greatly. I have learned to try to have a selfless attitude towards others, and to apply what I feel when I work with those who have special needs to my everyday life. They have taught me to find joy in every situation, and to be present in the moment which is something I will forever be grateful for. 


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Image by Dallas Hamm
Do you participate in any other community service projects, if so, what do you do?

I am involved in playing on the Varsity tennis team at my school, and I help coach Upward Cheer at my church for younger girls. I am a member of the Christian Club at my school, and I take photography and have grown to love it. Lastly, I am on the Student Leadership Committee for my church youth group where we plan upcoming events and lessons!

Claire will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Cade Mullins

2/25/2019

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Cade Mullins
Interview with Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Amanda Cantrell Photography LLC
Kentucky
Issue 15

The Nomination: Cade is a young man I got to know when he was a sophomore. We joked & kidded on the football sidelines while I photographed the games. He's frankly like my second son. Gosh I love this kiddo. I photographed his family the year I met him & I learned their story. Cade's dad, Craig had passed away when Cade was in the 8th grade. Craig was a HS & college football player, and college coach. He had won championships on both sides. so, when it came time to photograph Cade's Senior pictures, Cade and I worked together to create an art piece to surprise his mom. Every piece of this image tells a story.

* Cade's dressed in a sharp suit w/ his Beats on (very him)
* Cade is wearing his dad's championship rings
* Cade has on a "Team Mullins" bracelet that folks in the community wore while Craig was fighting cancer
* Cade's HS jersey hangs in the far left locker (#9 is Dad's college number)
* Craig's HS jersey & college football jacket are surrounding Cade, to signify that his dad is ALWAYS with him.

THIS is powerful imagery. There is no way that a person who knows this story cannot be moved by a son's love for both his mom and his dad.

THIS is why I do what I do. Every Senior has a story. Every Senior has a vision, and a photographer who listens & works hard to make their vision a reality is a KEY to creating something more than a picture. It's ART, and an image that will mean something to not only Cade & his family, but to his children, grandchildren and future generations. This makes my heart smile & I feel honored that I was able to help him create it. ❤️

I know you love your beats, what is your favorite kind of music to listen to and why?
That’s tough because it really depends. I love it all I can listen to different stuff at times. like before games I’ll listen to hip hop and rap, and when I'm with my friends its anything from Luke Combs to Drake.

Tell us about this photo. What does it mean to you?
Oh, so much, it helps people take in what I represent, also how I hold myself. The lockers to start with, I've always played sports growing up and plan to in the future, that's just how I was raised. The jerseys, the first one is mine: I've always worn number 9 because of my dad. Also the other jersey, that is my dad’s high school jersey, just showing where he came from. Also, the Georgetown college jacket, that was also my dad’s. The suit just shows that I like to be classy and dress nice and have a formal appearance most of the time. The rings are my dad’s. I chose to wear those to show some of his achievements. I've always worn a white #Teammullins bracelet, that was what was made when my dad was sick. Lastly, the glasses and headphones, those are really to show class. That for the most part means I mean business. and have matured because of what has happened in my life.

What are your favorite sports?
Football is by far my favorite. This is my last year of high school football and I have been playing since I was 7. I do enjoy other sports too. I like watching all other sports, but football has been my main sport forever even while playing other sports.

What are your plans after high school?
I plan on playing college football, not sure where yet. I have various colleges looking at me along with 4 college offers. I want to study athletic training or sports management.

Cade was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

Click here to buy issue 15
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Hannah Nathanson

2/25/2019

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Hannah Nathanson
Interview by Zoe D’angelo  
Nomination & Photography by Jessica Robertson Photographic Artistry 
Virginia
Issue 15

The Nomination: While most teens are grappling with problems like boyfriends, GPAs, acne...Hannah struggles with chronic debilitating health issues. Her sport is not one we typically think of when we list high school sports, but YOGA is a practice that has been a lifeline for Hannah. The mind-body connection she finds in this practice is vital to her wellbeing and she is disciplined in working toward a healthy result. Truly inspiring!
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How did you become interested in yoga?
I became interested in yoga due to being sick. I needed something to do and put what little energy I had into simple yoga and meditation. I was diagnosed with an invisible illness = POTS, (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). I was bedridden for about 1.5 years, in so much pain that I couldn't move, lift my head off the pillow, or even eat. With my elevated heart rate and low blood pressure, I am only capable of doing minimal exercises. I came across a beginner level yoga video about anxiety and depression through YouTube, which was my favorite hobby while bedridden.

What are 2 things you love most about yoga?
One of my favorite things about yoga is just the feeling during, and after my yoga time. It's the feeling of being able to do anything. After I'm done stretching and doing my favorite poses, I feel a release. I feel pretty much pain-free, which is something that is very hard for me to find. My body is loose and flexible, instead of having my joints and muscles stiff and tense. No matter how short-lived that feeling is, I'm always grateful for a reprieve. My other favorite thing about yoga is that I feel unique and different. Other people my age play soccer, field hockey, gymnastics, cheerleading, or lacrosse. When I do yoga, I know I'm being unique, and I prefer it that way.

Tell me about your typical day.
Due to POTS, my typical day is very different than an average teen. My body requires a lot of sleep to function, usually about 12 hours. Once I wake up, the first thing I do is try and eat something to take medication, which is always a problem because of constant nausea. If I'm not able to eat, I opt for drinking a protein shake. I have to spend the majority of my day in bed because I'm physically not able to do much. Luckily, I can easily do yoga in bed or on my mat next to my bed. I try to do yoga every day, but sometimes I'm not able and that's okay. I split my time with online school, guided meditation, listening to audiobooks, nighttime yoga, doctors’ appointments, and listening to YouTube videos.

Do you plan on continuing yoga in the future?
I do plan on continuing yoga for the rest of my life, and as my health improves, I would love to become an instructor to help people become more self-aware and share my advice and experiences.

Would you like to teach yoga classes?
I would love to one day be able to teach and share the benefits of yoga, meditation, and deep breathing. Teens struggle with the mindset of being perfect. Yoga really helped me see that it doesn't matter what your shape, size, or even age is. All that matters is that you're on the mat and trying to better your mind and body.


Hannah was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine. 
click here to buy issue 15
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Holly Simmons

2/24/2019

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Holly Simmons
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination & Photography by Daniel Simmons Photography
Issue 18 | Sports
Florida


​The Nomination: Holly Simmons is a busy girl! She plays soccer, rides horses, plays drums and guitar, and still finds ways to volunteer! She was homeschooled from 3rd grade and graduated 7 months early. She gave over 200 hours to the American Red Cross while stationed with her parents overseas at RAF Mildenhall. ​
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What were your experiences like being home schooled?

I really enjoyed homeschooling a lot. It opened the world for me in ways that it wouldn’t have if I had gone to a regular school.
My experiences were unique. I had a lot of opportunities to travel and go out learning things hands on and I really enjoyed that. While we were in England for 4 years on military orders, I didn’t have to stay on a rigid school schedule, but rather, I could have a flexible one and, because of that, I got to have so many different experiences. I was also able to graduate a year earlier than most. I have to say, it did come with its challenges despite all these positives.

​​Tell me about your volunteering opportunities.

While we were in England, I really enjoyed volunteering for the Red Cross. Every summer, I was always helping through them. It stared at the Library on Mildenhall, I was always reading books, so getting to learn about how a library works internally sounded like a good opportunity. I went from volunteering at the Library to the Youth Center on Lakenheath. I adored those kids, and they were sad to see me go which made it even more rewarding because it showed they really enjoyed my company. The following year, I went to the Pediatric Care center in the hospital on Lakenheath where I found my true passion; Sports Medicine-like subjects.

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What were your some of your favorite extracurricular activities?

I had a few favorite activities that I enjoyed doing. Riding horses, playing soccer, and playing instruments were my favorite out of all of them. When I was 6, I started playing soccer. I lettered as a sophomore in soccer while I was on the travel varsity team with Lakenheath High School and continued playing with another team as soon as we got back in the states. 

I also got into playing the guitar at age 6. Two years later, in 2008, I started getting into playing the drums and was always told that I was my teacher’s fastest learner and I always amazed him.
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During this same year, I was given horse riding lessons for my 8th birthday and it was a passion that never died. To this day, I still ride, and I want it to follow me throughout my life. 
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​What are your plans for the future? 

I would like my future plans to involve being part of an equestrian team and to compete for Auburn university. I have taken a heightened interest in studying the biomedical field and becoming an equine vet. I love being around horses and I want to pursue something that I am passionate about for the rest of my life. 

Holly will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
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click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Kari Swenson

2/24/2019

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​Kari Swenson
Interview by Zoe D’angelo 
Nomination & Photography by Leah Pobanz of Wild Plum Photo
Nebraska
Issue 15

The Nomination: Kari Swenson is a very inspiring kid. When she was 9 years old, Kari decided to prove to her mom that she could be stronger than boys. Her strong will and determination brought her to staying fit, working out and eating healthy. Kari is 14 years old now and has not eaten sugar for 5 years and she constantly adds junk foods to her DO NOT EAT list. She also is involved in cross country and track at her high school!
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​What are some ways that you keep yourself healthy? 
I keep myself healthy by not eating junk food and exercising 4-5 times a week (either weightlifting or running). I eat lots of fruits and veggies and I do my best not to eat past 8:00 p.m. I try to get at least 8 hours of sleep per night, but the more, the better. I try to keep a positive attitude throughout the day and be optimistic. I also do cross country in the fall and track in the spring because I love running and it keeps me in shape. I notice I feel happier after a long run or a hard workout. 
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​Do you have any suggestions on how someone could start eating healthier? 
You just have to be determined and willing.  Recognize how certain foods make you feel. I’ve always noticed that when I eat something that I know I shouldn’t, it makes me feel sluggish for the rest of the day. Then you must set a goal and start slow! I have had friends that have been inspired by me or someone else and have tried to stop eating all junk food all at once. While this is a great goal, it is very hard to achieve just at one time. For me, I cut out candy and pop first, then sweets, then processed meats, then chips and so forth. 
 
Did you find any healthy foods that are surprisingly delicious? 
 I have really come to love all fruits and vegetables. I have never had a fruit that I didn’t like. Smoothies are my favorite breakfast food. Basically, if it’s healthy, I almost always love it. Some of my absolute favorites though are quinoa, kale, smoothies, homemade sushi, veggie soup, fish, berries and tomatoes. 
 
How did you stop yourself from eating sugar for 5 years?  
It sounds crazy to a lot of people, but not eating sugar for 5 years was not as hard as some may think. The first few months were rough, but the more I disciplined myself and just didn’t think about sweets, the easier it became. I noticed I was feeling happier and more energetic as I ate less and less junk food.  
 
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Are you interested in pursuing a career in fitness and healthy lifestyles after high school? 
First, I plan to go on a mission for my church and then later attend college. I have thought about doing something health related in my future, but I have not explored all the options yet because I also have a great interest in art and photography.

Kari was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine. 
click here to buy issue 15.
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know.
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Ethan Spencer

2/24/2019

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Ethan Spencer
Interview by Diamond Farmer
Nomination & Photography by Jessica Robertson Photographic Artistry
Virginia
Issue 15

The nomination: The alarm goes off every day many hours before the sun comes up to wake Ethan for his morning swim practice. He swims for hours before he even goes to school each day. Sacrifice is the word that comes to mind when we talk with Ethan about his dedication to competitive swimming. Not only does he maintain his grades, his friendships and excels at his sport, he makes the choice to forgo lots of fun socializing in order to make it happen as he has to go to bed early every night to be ready to dive in the next day.


When did you start swimming?
A friend invited me to join the summer swim team when I was 9 years old and I loved it so much that I have been swimming ever since. So much, that 2 years ago I began swimming year-round for NOVA of Virginia and am looking forward to continuing my swimming career at the collegiate level.

How does your sleep schedule work around swim practice?
Since I practice every morning at 4:45am and live a good half hour away, I wake up at 3:40am in order to eat and get there on time. I go to sleep at 7:30pm during the week in order to maintain a good sleep schedule.

Do you have any other hobbies or activities besides from swimming?
I am a very competitive fantasy football player and huge sports fan (pro and college). I enjoy hanging out with my friends most weekends when I don't have a swim meet, and hiking and taking eye opening pictures of nature. In the summer I work as a lifeguard at the YMCA.

What have you had to sacrifice to excel at swim and school, and does it stress you out?
Daily I have to sacrifice my time, which results in me having to be rigorous in keeping up with school work to maintain my 4.2 GPA. I try to do my homework immediately and avoid procrastination at all costs. I also have had to give up various aspects of my social life that a typical high school kid might have. No, it doesn’t stress me out - I have faith in maintaining my schedule and if I do everything when it is supposed to be done it will all work out.

Ethan was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

click here to buy issue 15
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Raina Saldivar

2/23/2019

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​Raina Saldivar
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Alicia Crosson Photography
Issue 18 | Sports
California

​The Nomination: I am privileged to nominate Raina as an inspiring teen! In school, Raina is involved in year-round sports including basketball, softball, and golf. She is also involved in many clubs and is a part of student council. Raina is an amazing teen of many gifts and talents! Her hobbies include special effects makeup, woodcarving, wood burning, and painting. She also enjoys any community service projects that she can be a part of. I admire her love for family, friends, and life. Thank you so much for considering Raina as one of our amazing and inspiring teens!
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​Tell me about your sports you’re involved in. 
I’m a tri-sport athlete. I play golf, basketball and softball at my high school. I love being involved in sports because it helps me meet new friends, teaches me life lessons and good sportsmanship! Playing sports has taught me to think of others and be a better team player. One thing I’m most proud of is my ability to work hard and maintain a 4.0 GPA. I started playing sports year-round when I realized it also helped me focus better in school! I am dyslexic and playing sports has helped me have a quicker response time in my academics because it keeps my brain sharp and ready at all times!

​How are you involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes on your campus?
I am the secretary for FCA on my high school campus. My job duties include getting guest speakers to come share their testimonies. It has been really cool because I get to work with many retired athletes and influential business owners who also share the same beliefs I do. I try my best to invite new students from our campus to join our monthly meetings so they can learn more about Jesus! One thing that is important to me is not to just say I’m a believer but to show it through my actions by loving others and being a positive role model. I have made amazing friends through FCA!

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How did you become interested in special effects makeup?
When I was 9, I had my makeup done for Halloween to represent a sugar skull style and I realized I could do amazing things with makeup! My dad and I go all out for Halloween on our costumes and special effects every year. This past year we had over 700 people come through our haunted house! I love seeing the kids happy when they get candy and they enjoy looking at all the displays we have set out. In particular, I love the gory zombie stuff and I always hand make my entire costume. Last year, I was Maleficent! For fun, I enjoy donating my time to local organizations to run the face painting booths to help bring in support for their cause.
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Raina took this picture of the outfit she made!
What are your plans for the future?
I want to attend a 4-year Christian College and I plan to get a business degree. I would like to open my own small business one day, but I haven’t decided what just yet. I’d probably like to open my small business in my home town so I can be involved in the community, give back to everyone that has supported me and live a kind, simple life. I am super proud of the community I am a part of!

Raina will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Karenna Glenn

2/23/2019

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Karenna Glenn
Interviewed by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Danielle Lavis Photography, LLC
Maryland
Issue 17 | Dancer

The Nomination: Karenna Glenn. Karenna is a beautiful soul with the most uplifting spirit! Karenna is sweet, bubbly, compassionate and fun! She is proud of the fact that she is on a nationally ranked dance team (Savage Dance Company). She is also proud of her ability to work extremely well with special needs children. She is in the National Honors Society and has won several Student of the Month awards. She has also won numerous dance scholarships. A cause that is important to Karenna is raising awareness for pediatric cancer research. She is an ambassador for Dance Hope Cure. She participates in dance photo shoots for them and all the money goes to research. 
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​How did your interest in dance begin?
My interest in dance started when I was three and a half. I was in preschool, and they offered dance classes. I instantly fell in love. As I got older and more experienced, I discovered dance is a great way to express emotions that are not always easily verbalized.
Tell me about your nationally ranked dance team.
I have been dancing at Savage Dance Company (SDC) for nine years and competing with my team for the past seven years. We have won several awards to include World of Dance Regionals in New Jersey (2017), World of Dance Regionals in New York (2018), and we were one of the top 5 studios at the Dance Awards (2017). I dance at least twenty-five hours a week and this includes classes and company rehearsal time. We go to several regional competitions a year, and we always do extremely well. This year I am a senior, and it is really bittersweet - I consider all of my teammate’s brothers and sisters. It is easy to say that I would not be where I am today without the owners, faculty, and my team at SDC.

What kind of other awards have you won? And why do you think you won them?
I have won two Student of the Month Awards. The first I received in my freshman year from my math teacher, and I received the other in my sophomore year from the dance teacher. Overall, I was selected because I am always eager to help other students when they need it. In my sophomore year, I was the teaching assistant for Dance I. In this class, there were four special needs students. I was primarily in charge of working with them and teaching the class when the teacher was absent. I developed a very special bond with the special needs students and my favorite part of the day in my sophomore and junior year was when I worked with them.

What are some of your duties as you are an ambassador for Dance Hope Cure?
I became a Dance Hope Cure ambassador in the Fall of 2018. As an ambassador, I get to have dance related photo shoots and all the money raised is donated to childhood cancer research. Additionally, as an ambassador, I promote this non-profit organization by posting the pictures they take of me by their Emmy Award-winning photographer, Mike Gillette on social media. Finally, SDC was privileged to participate and share our love for dance for the first time at an event called Curefest that occurs on the National Mall in Washington, DC. All the senior ambassadors on my team choreographed the piece we performed for this event to raise awareness and funds to further childhood cancer research.

Do you plan on continuing to dance in the future? Why or why not?
I am still trying to figure out if I will be dancing in the future. In college, I would like to join the dance team, but I will not be majoring in dance. Dance will always have a special place in my heart, but I would like to try other things.

Karenna will be featured in Issue 17 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
Click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
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Madelene Eilers

2/23/2019

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Madelene Eilers
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination by Sarah Eilers
Photography by Amy Taylor - A Taylored Image
Oklahoma
Issue 18 | Volunteer

The Nomination: Maddie Eilers is a Senior in Mooreland Ok. She is inspiring to me because she gives of herself and her time. She received the Barbara James Service Award for completing 250+ hours of community service, serving and loving on others in a way many teens will not do. It’s refreshing to see a light shine so bright as she does what she loves. 

National Honor Society, NHS Treasurer, National Technical Honor Society, HOSA, HOSA Chapter Secretary, Golf, Band, Youth Group, Classic Bowl Honor Band, People and Song summer internship, Oklahoma Honor Society, Superintendent's Honor Roll, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu
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Tell me about the Barbara James Service Award.

This award is in memory of Barbara James. This award seeks to recognize individual HOSA members who show leadership skills and have a commitment to community service in health. To receive this award your volunteer hours have to come from something that is related to the health care field. 

What is HOSA and HOSA Chapter Secretary?

HOSA is an international student organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Health Science Education. HOSA provides a unique program of leadership development, motivation, and recognition exclusively for secondary, post-secondary, adult, and collegiate students enrolled in health science education and biomedical science programs or have interests in pursuing careers in health professions. HOSA is 100% health care! I am the secretary of my HOSA chapter. 

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​How did you receive 250+ hours of community service? 

I received my hours from volunteering at my local martial arts gym, RYSE MMA. I was chosen to be a part of the STORM team which stands for Special Team of Role Models. As a STORM team member, I helped teach children ages 3-15 how to live a healthy lifestyle, build character, and how to defend themselves if needed. 

What else do you do in your spare time?

I also love helping, serving and reaching people. One of my most favorite things to do is spread the good news of Jesus Christ every opportunity I get. 
I set an example in what I believe. When I set my mind to something, it’s going to happen. I am very determined.

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Image by Nikki Pecoraro of H&N Photography
What are your plans for the future?

I plan on attending Northwestern Oklahoma State University to pursue a degree in Health & Sports Science: Health/Fitness Management and minor in Business. I also plan on continuing to write songs and play music. I am determined to continue my training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and obtain the honor of becoming a black belt. These are just my plans; God’s plans are the real plans.


Madelene will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
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click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Serena Yee

2/23/2019

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​Serena Yee
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Nomination and Photography by Alicia Crosson Photography
California
​Issue 18 | Leader

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​The Nomination: It's a privilege to nominate Serena as an inspiring teen! Serena is currently a freshman in high school, on her school's Drill Team, and a part of Student Council. Serena also loves to dance and is a dancer for Showstoppers Dance Studio in her hometown. She also carries a Black Belt in Taekwondo!
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I admire so many qualities and characteristics Serena has. Serena is super sweet, kind, loving, gentle, loyal, and has a heart of gold. I adore her and her love for others. She is hard working, dedicated, and a natural, inspiring leader to her friends and to others who know her. I would love to see her being recognized as the amazing, inspiring teen that she is!
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Tell me about your school’s drill team and why you joined.
My school’s drill team consists of dancers from all different grades. We perform at home varsity games during both football and basketball season. I’ve gotten very close to these girls because we share the same passion. I really love this team because we strive to make each other better dancers and people. This team is special because our routines are choreographed and taught by the junior and senior dancers which I’m inspired to do someday.
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What are your duties within student council and what have you learned?
I am the freshman Vice President in student council. As Vice President I share ideas with other officers and help plan school related events such as themed spirit weeks, school dances, homecoming, and rallies. From being in student council I understand that in order to be a good leader, one has to be able to listen and effectively advocate for the student body. 
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​How did your career in dance begin and what do you love most about it?
My first dance class was taken when I was two and a half years old. I started with a ballet and tap and as my love for dance grew so did the dance genres I learned. I first started competing around the age of seven and I immediately loved it. I competed in jazz, tap, lyrical, and hip hop. My biggest milestone in my dance career was when I performed my first self-choreographed solo last year. My all-time favorite style of dance is pointe and I love every aspect of it. I believe that dance has taught me dedication and commitment along with grace and poise. 
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Image by Julie Yee
Why do you think you are so inspiring and what makes you stand out?
I believe that I am inspiring because I am hard working, dedicated, and always open to trying new things. One of the things that I believe makes me stand out is that I am a second-degree black belt in taekwondo. I started when I was seven years old and have been practicing ever since. Martial arts allow me to physically and mentally push past my fears. As a result, I was able to gain the confidence that opened so many opportunities for me.

What are your plans for after high school?
After high school I plan on going to college. Some career fields I’m interested in are pharmacy or psychology. I would really like to move away to college and become more independent. I’d also like to minor in dance or even try out for the college’s dance team.

Serena will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
click here to purchase inspiring teens magazine
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Alan Ortega Lopez

2/21/2019

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Alan Ortega Lopez 
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Photography by Lindsay Nalley Photography
Indiana
Issue 18 

​The Nomination: Alan Ortega Lopez's senior sessions was one of my favorites. He has accomplished so much for only being a senior. He currently holds his Private Pilot Certificate (PPL). He is taking online ground school and will be going to the Lift Academy in June. In approx. 7 months he will become a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI). 


How did your career in becoming a pilot begin?
When I was a little boy, I would always watch Jay-Jay the airplane and I always dreamed of flying. When I went on a trip to California with my grandma, I was looking out the window at the airplanes landing and taking off. I thought it would be awesome to just travel all over the place and look at the world in a whole different perspective. As I was sitting in the airplane waiting for us to taxi to the runway, I kept brainstorming all these questions about how airplanes can lift all the weight and what keeps them in the air? Once we got to our destination, I googled what it took to become a pilot. I watched videos and documentaries about aviation in general the whole time. When we finally got home, I called my local airport in Daviees County and met Eric Seber who took me up in a Discovery flight. I was able to fly the airplane for about 10 minutes. It was then that I realized that this is what I wanted to do. I later got my PPL at Midwest Aerosports.

What is your favorite part about being involved in the pilot business? 
The thing I love most about being in the aviation business is that I constantly make new friends and mentors through networking at airports. I have met various mentors throughout this journey. However, I love flying to different airports for lunch with my friends or other pilots to talk about our training and about aviation in general and how new regulations may affect general aviation. I also love to travel to new places and eat what we call the $100-dollar burger.

Tell me about the Lift Academy you will be attending in June.
The Lift Academy is in Indianapolis, Indiana and is in association with Republic Airlines. This academy teaches the students how to be ready for the airlines and uses state of the arch technology to create a well and knowledgeable learning environment for the students. The academy gives students a direct pathway to Republic Airlines where student can see themselves sitting on the right seat of an E-170, E-175 as a first officer and work up to a captain position in about 3 years. Republic started this academy in order to cope with the pilotage shortage. However, before becoming a first officer with Republic, while at LIFT students will become certified flight instructors (CFI) to reach the 1500+ hours to meet FAA regulations.

If someone wanted to be a Pilot, like yourself, what advice would you give them?
If someone wanted to become a pilot like me I would recommend them to research around for the different flight schools that they could attend near their area and that they shouldn't settle for the first flight school they come across. There are many flight schools to choose from. Once they pick the right flight school for them, they need to find A CFI that fits their learning style because it will make their training way better and allow them to be knowledge of the learning material. Also, to work hard for their dream of becoming a pilot. It takes a lot of work, time, money and dedication to become a pilot but at the end of the day you will be doing what you love the most and will be investing in your own future.

What are some of the planes you wish to fly in the future and why?
Some of the airplanes I want to fly in the future would be a TBM,A380, and a Beachcraft King air. The reason I would love to fly these airplanes is because each different type and category of aircraft creates a new base of learning that airplane the airplanes listed above have various avionics systems that would require a lot of training to fully become familiar with the airplane and its components. Also, each one generates a different challenge for the pilots in some way shape or form and by adding various aircraft types increases the pilots experience which is the best thing a pilot can do. As a good CFI says, "A good pilot is always learning" (Jason Shapert).


Alan will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
click here to buy inspiring teens magazine
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Nick Hart

2/21/2019

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​Nick Hart
Interview by Larissa Chelius
Nomination and Photography by Jolene Broad Photography
Indiana
Issue 18 | Sports

​The Nomination: Nick Hart was diagnosed with Type I diabetes his junior year in high school and has had to fight to handle his disease and continue to conquer his sport. He is an incredible role model. Love him dearly. 
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​How did you become interested in diving and how did you start?
I was a gymnast when I was younger. My mom read about diving online and thought it would be a better fit for me. She signed me up and I instantly loved it! I went through lessons and then I joined club diving and started competing. 

What is your daily diving schedule like?
I get up every morning at 6:00am to be ready to leave my house at 6:45am. I have a one hour and fifteen-minute drive to get to practice by 8:00am for dry land. Dry land goes to 11:00am. I then have a one-hour break and start water practice (actual diving) at 12:00pm. I normally go until about 2:45pm or 3:00pm. After that I do either a weight or jumping workout for roughly thirty minutes. When that’s over, I drive home and start school (online school). 
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​Tell me a little bit about your favorite dive. 
My favorite dive would probably be an inward two- and one-half pike on three meter (405b). Basically, I stand backwards but flip forward in a pike position for two- and one-half rotations. This is my favorite dive because of how it feels. It feels different from any other dive and I love the uniqueness of it. 

How have you grown through your fight of Type I diabetes?
I was diagnosed just under two years ago with type 1. My diving and really everything in my life had a huge decline. It was incredibly hard for me to adjust to my new lifestyle and I couldn’t seem to get into the flow of things. I went through a really rough patch for a while until I got more accustomed to living with diabetes. Eventually, I didn’t think of diabetes as something really life altering (although it is) and it was just a part of my life. I think my experience has given me a new perspective on the world and life in general. 
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What plans do you have for your future?
 I am committed and signed to dive for Cal Berkeley. I will begin diving and taking a class this summer on June 24th! I hope to get into the business school there. After my undergraduate studies, I plan on trying to attend Law school.


Nick will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
click here to buy inspiring teens magazine
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Brooklyn Campbell

2/21/2019

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​Brooklyn Campbell
Interview by Zoe D'Angelo
Nominated by Casandra Campbell 
Photography by Heidi Anderson
Kansas
Issue 18 | Leader


The Nomination: Brooklyn Campbell is an inspiring teen for all that she juggles with a smile on her face and a heart for serving others. She has strong leadership skills and extremely balanced. Although Brooklyn is a competition dancer, a member of the Dance team at school, and is an apprentice for Tremaine Dance Company, Dance is not all she focuses on. Brooklyn is the junior class president, and a freshman mentor. She also works with special needs kids in the club Circle of Friends, is the secretary for Model United Nations, is a member of National Honor Society, teaches Sunday school to 5th grade girls for the past three years, attends youth group, and volunteers for the CASA organization. Brooklyn also maintains a 4.6 GPA.
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​Tell me about some of your leadership opportunities you have had. 
I have had numerous opportunities to serve as a leader in dance as well as school. Some of my leadership is done through being a role model for others, and other times it is physically leading a group. One leadership opportunity in particular is my role as the junior class president. I have been able to lead the other juniors in organizing fundraisers, making announcements, and helping anyone get involved who wants to within my high school. 

How did your career in dance begin?
My career in dance began when I was two years old. My mother danced in her childhood, so it was destined for me. I ended up loving it and never wanting to leave dance class. Then, through elementary school I pursued dance up to 5 days a week. I still love and express my joy for dance through my high school dance team, Tremaine Performance Company, and my competition team.
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​Tell me about your duties within the CASA organization.
CASA is an organization that supports advocating abused and/or neglected children and provides them with a court appointed advocate to help make them feel safe and have a permanent home. I was able to provide various clerical duties for the staff and adult volunteers to make their days easier so they could further provide for the children. 

With all your amazing extracurricular activities, how do you maintain an outstanding 4.6 GPA?
It is a juggling game, honestly. Throughout my years in high school, I have developed many habits that help me throughout the week. These habits go anywhere from setting timers for studying and then off to the next activity to going in early to school to communicate with teachers in areas I may need additional help. I will also mention that surrounding myself with the people I have has also helped me achieve all that I have. My friends and parents are nothing but encouraging. 
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What are your plans for the future? 
I plan on attending college and majoring in biochemistry and minoring in leadership. While in college, I plan to continue dancing on the college dance team. I have always had a passion for helping others in need and using problem solving. With that said, I hope to attend medical school and become an anesthesiologist. 

Brooklyn will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.


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click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Nathaniel Munoz

2/21/2019

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​Nathaniel Munoz
Interview by Zoe D’Angelo
Photography by Antonio De Jesus
Florida 
​Issue 18

​The Nomination: Nathaniel Muñoz is an 18-year-old science-fiction novelist, published poet, and YouTuber. He has opened a publishing company, the Muñoz Publishing House, and will have his first novel released in June. On his YouTube channel, he provides writing advice for fellow aspiring novelists.
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​How did your interest in writing poetry and fiction begin?
In Ms. Silverio’s 7th Grade Language-Arts class at Good Shepherd Catholic School, I was given various assignments to write creatively. These assignments included creating both works of poetry and fiction. Through these assignments, I discovered my passion for writing and my love for words.

What is your favorite piece of work you have written and why?
Presently, my favorite completed piece of work is my soon-to-be-published novel, Elvort. Elvort has allowed me to sharpen my writing skills, meet various others in the writing community, and has motivated me to open my own publishing company, the Muñoz Publishing House.
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​Tell me about the plot of your first novel, Elvort, that is being released in June.

Earth is in ruins. After the Great Collapse, poverty, crime, and disease became as common as oxygen in the air. One of the few people who hoard the world's money, Abraham Gatlin, creates an enormous enclosed circular community. In Elvort, people can live in a simulation of a different era of their choice. However, in order to enter, Gatlin brainwashes his new citizens to live as people of the selected era. They are given the mentality and speech of that era, in addition to a storyline to abide by.
Louis Harpp, the protagonist, experienced a power outage during the entry process. He entered his era with knowledge from outside Elvort. His friend Breck Wilder doesn't recognize him. Realizing that Elvort is a place where people are swept from everything that made them, Louis must set out to reclaim his friend and life.
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​Why did you want to start a Youtube channel?
In an attempt to grow my author platform and engage with fellow writers outside of Miami, FL, I started my AuthorTube YouTube channel to provide writing advice and open up various outlets for networking.

What types of books do you plan on continuing to write and publish in the future?
I am currently working on two literary works. The first, Perception, is a superhero-type novel about a teen with the power to manipulate perception. The second, a story about the Coolie Trade that brought Chinese people as slaves to Cuba in the 1800s. After these next two projects, I hope to continue expanding my horizons and further push my writing career forward.

Nathaniel will be featured in Issue 18 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.
click here to buy inspiring teens magazine
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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Trey Boone

2/21/2019

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Trey Boone
Interview by Michelle Sicard
Nomination and Photography by TAP Photography
North Carolina
Issue 17

​The Nomination: Trey Boone is a high school senior and a preacher of the gospel. He plays guitar, bass, mandolin, dobro, banjo and piano. He not only plays but also gives lessons to both adults and school age children. Trey is a volunteer fireman and is dual enrolled in both high school and Community College in the applied engineering program.
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How did you become interested in music and what are some artists/bands you look to for inspiration?
I was first interested in learning to play guitar in middle school and I would play with my grandad. It wasn’t long, and I really loved it and started playing in bands. Some of my biggest influences are Tony Rice and Bryan Sutton. I also enjoy playing other instruments such as piano mandolin and bass, and some instruments no one likes such as banjo and dobro.
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What advice would you give to a teen/adult trying to learn a new instrument? 
The advice I always give to people learning to play an instrument is that you can be as great of a musician as you want to be, but you must have the practice to back it up. This is true because the practice and time you put into being a musician is how well you will be able to play in the end.
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​What kind of jobs have you performed that inspire you to keep on being a volunteer fireman? 
I have always grown up around the fire house with my dad being the assistant chief. It’s always great to know that you can make a positive impact on someone’s life. Being a part of the fire department, you frequently get the chance to make someone’s life better and that is what it is all about.
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​As a student participating in dual enrollment, how are you able to organize both time and stress of school and your schedule?
School can be hard to juggle alongside a full schedule but when you look toward the end goal you know that one day it will all be worth it. Even though it will be hard now you have to persevere and keep the end goal in mind as motivation.
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As a part of a religious community, what are some of your duties and jobs at your church, organization, etc.? 
At the Concord Baptist Church I have several different jobs I do from Sunday to Sunday. I am the youth choir pianist, bass player for the choir, I often teach a Sunday school class, and preach when I get the opportunity. This is my favorite place to be and I always look forward to being at church.

What do you plan on doing after high school? Is engineering a possibility?
After High School I will take more engineering courses in the summer followed by an internship in the fall and then I will peruse a four-year degree in engineering. After I am done with school, I hope to get a job in the engineering field and possible pastor a church. I look forward to all that God has in store for my life and ultimately it is His will that matters most in the direction of my life.

Trey will be featured in Issue 17 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

click here to buy Inspiring Teens Magazine
click here to nominate an inspiring teen you know
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The Haunting of “The Gipper”

2/21/2019

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Article By Zoey Joseph
Pennsylvania
​Issue 15

​Washington Hall, one of the University of Notre Dame’s greatest architectural treasures is built high and wide with breathtaking sculpture and design. Dedicated to the arts and the theatre, it is a home to many students. Suddenly, a dark cloud falls over the beautiful building, ripping away it’s once innocent cover.  Unexplained footsteps make their way onto the roof, doors unexplainably slam shut with no one on either side. This is the only the beginning, soon the whole world will know the story of “The Gipper” and most, will wish they hadn’t. 

The year was 1920 when George Gipp made his way into the university history books, being the first Irish football player to make an All-American football team. He was known as one of the country’s finest football talents at halfback, setting records from leading his team in rushing and passing that still stand today. He was an all-star rookie, who was rising fast in the football world. Until tragedy struck, and his football career ended just as fast as it had begun. 

It was late on the night of December 14, 1920, when Gipp found himself locked out of his building after missing curfew. Feeling the exhaustion from the day, he decided to take a nap on the steps leading up the hall, assuming someone would eventually open the doors. It was then that he had made the deadliest mistake of his life. Yet, there was no way he could have known he was going to catch pneumonia from that cold December night, no way to know that that one choice would end his life at the young age of 25. 

It was first around Christmas of 1920, shortly after his death, that people had started reporting sightings of a ghostly figure. Campus newspapers reported, “residents of Washington Hall began to be bothered by night-time visits from a ghost who… blew a French horn with much violence...When they went fearfully to investigate he would be gone.” These were not the only sightings. Throughout the next years, the theatre in the hall was known to have many ghostly occurrences. Props began jumping off the shelves, strange music would be playing with no one around, even phantom footsteps were heard on the stage of the vacant auditorium. The Gipper, however, did not stop there. Still seemingly lurking the halls in 1925-26, a student, Pio Montenegro, claimed to see a ghostly figure described as the ghost of George Gipp riding a white horse through the halls and out onto the steps. 

Some say George Gipp’s ghost is stuck in the building, not able to escape to the afterlife due to unfulfilled responsibility. Other say he chooses to stay, wreaking havoc on those who never unlocked the doors, leaving him out in the harsh cold. Few, choose to remember him as the amazing football player who ended his career with a record-breaking 2,341 rushing yards. Most, however, will remember George Gipp as ‘The Gipper’, the ghost who roams Washington Hall.

Sources: 
“Ghosts Lurk in Football Stadiums with Haunted Histories.” Sports Planning Guide, Publisher Name Sports Planning Guide, 26 Oct. 2016, sportsplanningguide.com/ghosts-lurk-in-football-stadiums-with-haunted-histories/.
“Gipp, Ghosts Haunt Campus Lore // The Observer.” The Observer, The Observer, 30 Nov. -1, ndsmcobserver.com/2006/10/gipp-ghosts-haunt-campus-lore/.
Woodyard, Eric. “Spirit of Flint Athlete, 'The Gipper,' Haunts Notre Dame Campus.” MLive.com, MLive.com, 30 Oct. 2014, www.mlive.com/sports/flint/index.ssf/2014/10/spirit_of_flint_athlete_haunts.html.
“The Ghost of Washington Hall.” University of Notre Dame, University of Notre Dame, 2018, www3.nd.edu/~washhall/ghost.html.

Zoey's article was published in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.


Click here to buy issue 15
click here to submit an article to inspiring teens magazine
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Evan O'Donnell

2/21/2019

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​Evan O’Donnell
Interview & Photography by Olivia Bush
Pennsylvania
Issue 15

Evan O’Donnell A Highschool Quarterback
Written By: Olivia Bush

Walk into CB East high school on a Friday afternoon and you will see CB Easts 6-5 football team preparing for their upcoming game. If you look in the right place you will see their starting quarterback Evan O’Donnell starting to mentally prepare himself for that week’s 48 minutes of football.

Evan has done a lot and worked hard to get to the position he is in now. “My dad brainwashed me into becoming a Redskins fan when I was four even though I live in Philly and then started playing football with me in the backyard. I’ve played quarterback for as long as I can remember, and it was my dad who even taught me how to throw,” Evan says.

Now when it comes to having a packed schedule Evan knows all about it. From football practice, to hanging with friends, and taking some of the highest-level classes Evan does it all and knows how to balance it while having fun. “My parents have always pushed me academically,” says O’Donnell, “So I know that if I mess up football will be the first to go. I sometimes ask my parents why I can’t go out with friends and they say, ‘Evan you hang out with them every day at practice’ and I realize that they’re right because all the guys on the team are my best friends”.

Now when I sat down with Evan, I asked him a lot about his senior season. “My senior season is definitely a special one,” States the quarterback. “One of my favorite memories of my high school football career was beating West this year. This is mostly because my junior season we had so many close games and never won one. I wanted to finally win a close game, and that’s what we did”. Not only did East beat West this year, but they also beat South, winning the CB cup. They also beat Pennridge, securing them a spot in the Division One Playoffs. This is what Evan says made his senior season the best. Now everyone has a moment that they look back on and go that was so embarrassing. When I asked Evan what his was, he responded with “junior year, North Penn, I fumbled the ball out of the back of the endzone. My friends still give me a hard time about it, but we all know that we all make mistakes”. When it comes to pre-game rituals and players favorite parts of game da y everyone is different, but O’Donnell shared with me some unique ones, “Before every game I watch Drew Locks and Baker Mayfield’s college highlight reels, that gets me in the zone. Then when we go out to the field, I say a prayer at the 30-yard line, and that gets me ready to play. As far as my favorite part of gameday it would be playing the game and if we win, knowing that I helped the team win is a great feeling,” Evan says. 

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When asking Evan about his favorite play to run he says that the play is his favorite because of the memories that go along with it. “It’s a slant and go play. This is my favorite because this play is the play that helped us beat West this year. It is also the play that was used in the first touchdown me and my best friend Chris scored together”. Now anyone who goes to East football games knows that when Evan and Chris are out on the field together, they are unstoppable. When I asked Evan what it’s like getting to play and make game changing plays with his best friend; he responded with nothing but raving remarks about the wide receiver, “I would say it’s surprising, but Chris talks in my ear a lot and is always telling me that it will happen one day. I believed him and then it happened. I can never fully make a play without Chris. We have accomplished so much together, getting 1st team all-league together this season. He makes me look good and I am glad”. Afte r hearing this I briefly sat down with wide receiver Chris Lochetta and asked him what he thought about making game changing plays with his best friend and he told me, “Me and Ev have been neighbors for over 13 years so we’ve been imagining these types of plays and opportunities since we started throwing the ball in his yard. What we have accomplished this year is amazing and now we hope to play in college together soon”.
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Now Chris isn’t Evans only close friend on the football team. “I’ve been best friends with these guys since 8th grade and some before that,” says O’Donnell. “We have always been close, and football has brought us closer”. Many people that walk the halls of CB East high school know that the team is like family. When I asked Evan about what it is like he says, “It’s great, they are all brothers to me. We are really like family. Yes, we fight a lot but, in the end, we will always have each other’s back,”. When CB Easts football team manager Liv was asked about Evan and the team she said, “Evan is one of the sweetest people I have ever met. I ask myself every practice if Evan O’Donnell can get any nicer and then something happens for me to go, oh yes, he can. As far as the team goes it is like I have 60 older brothers who I know would do anything for me and I would do the same for them,”.

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According to O’Donnell some people think the team can be ignorant but really, they’re loads of fun! “Sure, we are very serious at practice and on the sidelines, but what people don’t see is how much fun we have. Our dance offs, Coach free style rapping, guys dancing in the weight room, and the week we play West is always entertaining. So yes, we are a hardworking team, but we balance out with fun,”.

If you go to a football game home or away, one thing you will always remember is the student section. “They are amazing,” says O’Donnell. “yes, the summer time was hard but once school started they have showed up to every game no matter how far, rain or shine”. I quickly sat down with someone that is regularly in the student section, spending time with friends and classmates, but also watching Evan play. When asked what she loves about getting to watch the games and Evan play his girlfriend Sammi Garoman adorably responded “It’s really awesome to watch him play because I know how much time and energy he puts into football. I love that during every game he goes out and plays to the best of his ability and always tries to improve himself. Watching him make plays makes me happy because I know he’s out there doing what he loves,”.

When I asked Evan about his future, he says he doesn’t want to stop playing football and wants to play college ball but doesn’t know where,”. When asked what he will miss about high school football he responded “Everything, the game in general. No other level of football has this much energy. Lastly, the people. I’ll miss the coaches because they have shaped me to become who I am today and my teammates because they’re my best friends and my family.”

To say that Evan O’Donnell has a passion and heart for the game of football is an understatement. He is truly a great high school quarterback.

Evan was featured in Issue 15 of Inspiring Teens Magazine.

click here to buy issue 15
click here to submit an article to inspiring teens magazine
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