Audrey Bolton

Audrey Bolton - California
Nomination & Photography by Dionne Bolton Photography
Issue 92 of Inspiring Teens Magazine
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​Nomination: Audrey Bolton - I’ve always believed that helping others is one of life’s greatest purposes. I want to bring light to people’s darkest days and be a source of strength when they need it most. After struggling with self-image during COVID, I realized how vital mental health is—and how healing can inspire purpose. I started high school knowing nothing about volleyball, but with hard work and heart, I became MVP my junior and senior year. Growing up in a small town gave me strong roots, and now I’m ready to rise, play at the college level, and use my story to uplift others.

Photography by Dionne Bolton Photography
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What is your favorite way to help others?
My favorite way to help others is by spreading positive energy and truly listening when someone needs to be heard. In the world we have today there is a lot of judgment, rushing to fix things, or just having someone’s full attention. I believe that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do for someone is to be there for them, whether it's using kind words, having a calm attitude, or the willingness to listen can make a bigger difference than people realize.

How would you describe yourself as a leader?
I see myself as a leader who lifts others up and sets a good example. I like to stay positive and make sure everyone feels included and heard. I'm good at staying calm in tough situations and helping people work together as a team. As a quiet person, being a leader isn’t about being the loudest voice, it’s about being supportive, responsible, and making sure everyone feels like they matter.

What has been your favorite leadership opportunity?
My favorite leadership opportunity has been becoming a role model for my younger sister. She means everything to me, and I’ve wanted to show her what it looks like to be confident, kind, and driven. Whether it’s through how I handle challenges, how I treat others, or how I go after my goals, I try to lead in a way that inspires her. It’s a huge responsibility to me, and it’s taught me that leadership isn’t always about titles, it’s about being someone others can look up to, especially the people who matter most.

How did you overcome self-image issues during covid?
During COVID I was a young girl and it was easy to get caught up in comparing myself to others, especially online. I started to feel insecure about how I looked and who I was. What helped me overcome those self-image issues was learning to be kinder to myself and realizing life will never be perfect. Keeping my loved ones close and doing things I love like volleyball has helped me overcome this struggle and overtime I’ve learned that confidence comes from accepting who I am, not from trying to be perfect.

How would you help others dealing with self-image issues?
If you're dealing with self-image issues, the first thing you should understand is that you're not alone. So many people struggle with insecurities, even if they don’t show it. I would remind others to stay true to who they are and not let outside opinions or unrealistic images affect how they see themselves. Everyone is unique, and that’s something to be proud of. Confidence doesn’t come from being perfect, it comes from accepting and loving yourself as you are. I want to be someone who listens, supports, and helps others realize their worth, no matter what they’re going through.

Tell us about your volleyball career.
I started playing volleyball my freshman year of high school and instantly fell in love with the sport. At first, I was just trying something new, but it quickly became something I truly cared about. By my junior year, I decided to take it more seriously and joined a club team because I knew I wanted to keep growing and possibly take it further beyond high school. Playing volleyball has taught me so much, like how to work hard, communicate better, and stay focused even under pressure.

What made you join and where are you at with it now?
I first joined volleyball because I wanted to try something new, but I quickly realized how much I loved it. It has helped me build friendships and feel part of a team. Being on the court with a group of girls who supported each other made a big difference for me, especially in high school. Now, I’m continuing my journey by playing college volleyball, and I’m so excited to be part of a new team, grow as a player, and take on new challenges at the next level.

What position do you play and why do you love it?
I play middle blocker, and I love it because there’s so much action on the net. Whether it’s blocking, covering, or hitting, I enjoy playing middle and staying active throughout the game. I can also play outside hitter when needed, but what I really love is the sport overall. The energy, the teamwork, and especially the competitiveness. Volleyball pushes me to be a better person and athlete and that's why I keep going back.

What will you miss most about your small town when you head off to college?
As excited as I am to explore new places and experiences, there’s a lot I’ll miss about my small town. I’ll miss the feeling of familiarity, the lifelong friendships, and the comfort of seeing familiar faces wherever I go. I’ll miss my family, the park where I’ve made so many memories, and the quiet streets that always felt like home. Growing up in a small town has shaped who I am, and while it’s hard to leave, I know it’s time to step outside my comfort zone and see what the world has to offer.

What are you looking forward to most at college?
I’ve lived in a small town for the past 14 years, and while I’m grateful for my small community and the memories I’ve made, I’m so excited to step out and explore the real world. What I’m looking forward to most in college is meeting new people, living in a new city, and discovering places and experiences I’ve never had before. I’m ready for change. I want to grow, learn, and push myself outside of my comfort zone. It’s a little scary, but it feels like the adventure I’ve been waiting for.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I have a big heart for people with special needs and a strong desire to make a difference in their lives. Bringing joy to others fills me with purpose and motivates me every day. As an energetic and outgoing athlete, I lead with positivity, compassion, and a commitment to lifting others up. Helping those in need is a part of who I am.

What else would you like to talk about?
Being yourself isn’t always easy in a world that tries to shape you into something else. I’ve battled self-doubt and insecurity, but I’ve come out stronger by learning to love who I am. Now, I want to encourage others to be confident with themselves no matter what anyone says. You don’t need to change to be accepted. Being yourself is more than enough. Confidence starts with believing that.

What do you feel passionate about or could talk about forever?
Family and friends mean everything to me. They give me so much love, support, and strength. I’m passionate about being there for the people I care about through the highs and the lows. Life is better when you’re surrounded by those who lift you up, and I always try to do the same for them.

What is your friend group like and how do you have fun together?
My friend group means the world to me. They’ve helped me grow into my true self by always accepting me without judgment. I can count on them no matter what, and I know they genuinely care about me. We’ve shared so many memories, from spontaneous trips to laughing uncontrollably over inside jokes in class. These everyday moments became the highlights of high school. Even though we’ll soon be heading in different directions, I’m not worried. We’ve built a bond strong enough to last a lifetime, and I know these friendships will always be a part of who I am.

What is a favorite memory with your friends?
One of my favorite memories with my friends is riding the bus to and from high school sports games. Those long rides were full of everything. Laughter, singing, and even a few tears. Whether we were celebrating a win or just trying to cheer each other up after a tough game, those moments brought us closer together. We shared stories, made jokes, and created memories I’ll never forget.

Tell us about your family. Where do you fit in and where do you stand out?
I come from a close, loving family with two sisters and two amazing parents. Being the middle child has given me a unique perspective. I’ve gotten to experience what it’s like to look up to an older sibling while also being a role model to my younger sister. I think that’s helped me become more understanding, patient, and compassionate. I definitely stand out in how deeply I care. I have a big heart for my family and always try to be someone they can count on. We’ve shared so much together, and they’ve played a huge role in shaping who I am.

What family trip or vacation will you never forget and why?
One family trip I’ll never forget is our recent vacation to Hawaii. It was such an incredible experience. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, and I felt so lucky to be there with the people I love most. We spent time exploring, relaxing, and just enjoying the beauty around us, and it brought us even closer together. Before that, we used to take road trips up to Montana, which were always full of laughter, inside jokes, and little moments that made those long drives unforgettable. These trips were special in their own way and I will never forget them.

How did you find your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most?
My mom has been my photographer since I was a little kid, capturing moments that mean the world to us. These senior photos are especially meaningful. They reflect not just this milestone, but years of love and memories. Every shoot with her is filled with laughter, beautiful scenery, and inside jokes that bring out my real smile. It’s more than just taking pictures; it’s a special bond we share.

What is a favorite memory with or thoughts of the person who nominated you?
My mom means the world to me, and I’m so grateful she nominated me. We’ve made so many amazing memories, whether it’s doing photoshoots, cheering me on at volleyball games, or just relaxing together watching movies. She’s always been there for me with love and support. I feel incredibly lucky to have her in my life, and I’ll cherish our moments together forever.

Why do you want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine?
I want to be in Inspiring Teens Magazine to motivate others my age to be kind and true to themselves. Everyone has the ability to make a difference when they choose to act with kindness and authenticity. By being yourself and showing compassion, you can inspire others and help create a better world.

If you win a scholarship, what will you do with the money?
If I were awarded this scholarship, I would use the money to help cover my school tuition and housing expenses. It would make the finances easier on my family and allow me to focus more on my education and goals. This opportunity would mean so much to me and bring me closer to building the life and career I’ve always wanted.

Is there anyone you'd like to thank for helping you to get where you are today?
I would like to thank my family, friends, and coaches because I would not be here today without them. They have taught me so much and have made me grow into a more confident person. I will appreciate them forever and contrite to grow with them.

Look for Laney in issue 92 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
*Interviews are not edited after received from our inspiring teens - what you read is who they genuinely are!

click here for more information on issue 92

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