Nomination: Ella Song is a highly motivated 17 year old with a passion for both science and visual art. She has a curious, creative mind and a generous heart. As an Academy of Science and Technology student, her favorite subject is AP Calculus, and her artworks have been showcased at Texas Visual Arts Scholastic Event and Texas Rodeo for multiple years. Ella has volunteered for nearly 100 hours at National Charity League and more than 120 hours at a local hospital. She enjoys helping toddlers and elderlies alike. Ella is a natural and compassionate leader, and her team advanced to the state level in the Destination Imagination competition multiple times. Ella is also an avid reader and a delightful piano player for the past 14 years. There is never a dull moment in her life.

What do you love most about science?
I love the fact that science, especially math and calculus, is very logical and precise.

What does it entail to be an Academy of Science and Technology student? 
I went through rigorous application and interview process in eighth grade to be admitted into the Academay of Science and Technology. I hope to combine my passion in math and art and major in architecture in college.

What about visual art holds your interest?
I love creating beautiful pictures and structures to express myself.

​How did you find and why did you choose Christine Kiscoe Photography for your photographer?
My mom found Christine Kiscoe Photography through referrals in our neighborhood. Christine connected with me right away to customize my photoshoots around my favorite outfits, hobbies, and location.

What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
Christine was very thoughtful and patient showing me how to pose. She arranged an overlapping session for my best friend and myself. It was a lot of fun having some photoshoots together with my friend!

Tell us about your artwork.
I dedicated my entire Junior year art portfolio to giving spotlight to my Chinese heritage as I became proud to be Asian.

What is a favorite piece of art you've created?
My favorite piece is a portrait of myself as a toddler with a fall background

What is the National Charity League and what do you do in it?
National Charity League is an organization that fosters the mother-daughter relationship through an ongoing commitment to philanthropy, culture and leadership. I regularly volunteered at subsidized seniors’ apartments, children’s museum, festival celebration activities, and delivered meals to those in need.

What is a favorite service project you've done through the organization?
I really enjoyed helping little kids make crafts at the local Children’s Museum. The smiles on their faces are priceless.

What are your volunteer duties at the hospital and what do you love most about it?
In the summer of 2021, I helped patients in the physical therapy and labor & delivery departments. In the summer of 2022, besides interacting the patients in the ICU and medical units, I also served as a mentor for new volunteers and was in charge of a CEO challenge project.

Tell us about Destination Imagination and what do you do in this organization?
I love participating in Destination Imagination which requires academic exploration, inventive design, and team coloration to demonstrate our original ideas.

What was it like going to states so many times?
It was both exciting and challenging. I was working with a great team!

What is your strongest leadership quality?
I led by example and can be both friendly and assertive when driving my team forward.

What are you currently reading?
Lord of the Flies by William Golding for my AP Language Art class.

What is your favorite genre of music to play on the piano? Do you have a favorite go-to song?
I play mostly classic music. One of my favorite pieces is Op. 17 #3 Song Without Words by Gabriel Faure.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
As a younger kid, being Asian American was a source of embarrassment to me. The way my face looks and the type of food I like were always the cause of teasing. Thankfully I have never been ostracized, but it still made me not as proud of my culture. In high school, I dedicated my entire Junior year art portfolio to giving spotlight to my Chinese heritage as I became proud to be Asian. I am especially proud to be able to embrace the beautiful and sometime hurtful aspects that come with growing up Chinese.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
The topic I would like to present to a group of my peers is the importance of creativity in the world. The pragmatism of our society preferentially promotes the fields of science and technology that are essential to the functions of our lives. Nevertheless, the imagination and ingenuity in the fields of performing and visual arts enlighten and uplift us and most importantly bring joy to our lives. I believe the integration of science and art will make this world a better and happier place.

Look for Ella in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Kendall is a 15 year old Model, Dancer, Influencer, Athlete, and Actor.
She is currently an influencer on IG with over 50K followers where she started her journey just over a year ago. She’s been dancing for 11 years and she’s currently on the comp team for her dance studio where she practices hiphop. She plays JV volleyball for her school where she maintains the honor roll every quarter this past school year. She’s a very hard worker and I’d love to see her get recognized for all of her efforts.

Tell us about your modeling career.
My modeling career started when I was cast to be in two short films. The producers said they loved the way I looked on film and they used me in 2 of their short films. I ended up being an extra in one film, and the young version of the main character in another! After I started to schedule more photo shoots, A few years later... I decided to start my Instagram account and have been enjoying it ever since.


What is the hardest thing about modeling that people may not realize?
Some things that people may not know is, you need a flexible schedule. And depending on the job. it can be a few hours. or a few days. With a busy schedule...like mine, it can get stressful and tiring. For most shoots you have to travel.

 What has been your favorite photo shoot so far?
 I have really enjoyed every shoot I've been to... but my favorite one has to be one of my recent ones. It was in NYC with Julian Peebles. It was so awesome that he designed clothes just for me! Julian was a really fun person, and easy to warm up too. He even let me play some of my favorite music while taking pictures! I also LOVE NYC.. so it was amazing to visit again!

What is one of your favorite accomplishments from dance?
I started dance at 4 years old.. 11 years ago. I switched between different styles until I found what I love Most...which is Hip-Hop!!. After going to four studios, and growing as a dancer I was asked to join the competition team at the place where I feel most at home. This was so exciting to me, I have always wanted to compete in dancing, and now I am!!!

What is your studio like and where do you fit in?
My studio is pretty big compared to my old studios. The studio's decor is mostly blue for team spirit. The shelves are filled with trophies that our studio has won from the past and our most current competitions. At first it was hard to warm up and get close with my team..but we're slowly becoming closer. It's hard to be the new girl on a team with others that have been together for years, I'm sure there are plenty of you who can relate.

What types of dances do you study and where are you with it now?
I've been doing Hip-Hop since I was old enough to join the class, which was at the age of 8. I stared with ballet and tap , I also did a little bit of jazz, But after joining the Hip-Hop class,I decided this is where I wanted to stay.....I absolutely love it and feel its what suits me most. 7.What do you love most about being an influencer? What I enjoy most about being an influencer is spreading positivity. Ive always loved making people smile. You never know what people are going through and I would love to make people feel better....Remember to always be kind and stay true to who you are. 
​

What is your volleyball schedule like?
My schedule gets extra busy during volleyball season. I have games on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.... and I have practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Volleyball starts at the end of August... but games start in September, And the season goes into October. I also have school, and 2 dance classes to keep up with. My dance classes are on Monday and Thursday which can get pretty stressful but, I wouldn't change a thing....I love both!!


What is your favorite memory with your volleyball team?
I can't pick one favorite memory... but I love the bus rides after a game...especially when we win!! We always laugh and have a lot of fun celebrating our wins and it's a great way to build team spirit.


How do you organize your life with all of your activities and still maintain honor roll every quarter?
My schedule gets very busy..but I take it one step at a time..this is what my schedule looks like. School, practice or a game depending on the day, then dance if its Monday or Thursday, then once I get home I do my homework, and try to make content for my IG, in between all of it. I consider myself to be a good student, always on time with homework, very good attendance and, my grades are decent and everything comes together at the end of the quarter.... I love seeing that I made honor roll when I get my report card, It's a great accomplishment.

How have you gotten where you are today?
 I work very hard on everything I do. I also enjoy everything I do, So that helps a lot!! No matter how hard everything gets, I don't give up!

Who has helped you get where you are today?
Some people that have helped me get where I am now is my mother and father. My mom and dad are both very supportive of everything I do. My mother also helps out with my Instagram a lot. My father brings us to NYC most of the time for photo shoots!
​
What have you learned about yourself in the process?
During this process I have learned that I am a very hard worker. No matter what, I don't give upon what I love!! 

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Heres some advice I would like to give others that want to get where I am. The biggest part... Is believeing in yourself!!! If you have a dream, and you work hard enough...you'll get there!!! If it starts to get hard.. don't doubt yourself or give up, you got this!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/ what are your plans?
I have a few options as to what I want to do. One thing is to further my modeling career...If I get lucky to get signed with an agency I'd get more jobs and I'd love to move to NYC. My other option is have modeling as a side job.. and go to collage.. Im thinking about looking into the medical field.

3 things on your bucket list
I have quite a bit on my bucket list... but here's some of my top ones!!
1) Go to the Eiffel Tower... I've always wanted to visit France..espicially at night.
2) meet my favorite music artist (MGK).. I've gone to one of his concerts but it would mean so much to meet him in person just to tell him how much I enjoy his music.
3) go to the "Sea of the Stars" Ive always thought it was so beautiful and I would absolutely love to go visit Maldives to experience this phenomenon.

Look for Kendall in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Matthew Summers is a gentle leader, but he commands respect. He serves as Captain of his varsity football team and guides his classmates as the Spiritual Life Senior Prefect, all while maintaining straight A’s. He inspires young children through his weekly involvement in the children’s program at church, coaching intramural sports and supervising and administrating a kids' summer sleep away camp. He is calm and encouraging, yet strong in his faith.


Tell us about your football career.
Growing up I really was not athletic and really was not interested in any sports. However, when I was around 10 I started throwing around the football with a friend and really enjoyed it. I started playing flag and then I started training and then I played tackle and one thing led to another and it soon became a very central point of my life. Now I am about to play my 6th year of tackle football and my 8th year of football in general. Now as a senior I am so excited and grateful to have the opportunity to be a team captain for my senior season.

What is a favorite accomplishment from football?
Definitely being team captain. It means a lot to me and I've been looking at the captain lockers since I was in 8th grade saying that I was gonna be in one someday and now to have that opportunity means so much to me.

What does it mean to you to be a captain?
Like I previously said it means so much to me to have this opportunity. I have worked so hard over the past four years to be in this position, and it is something I will cherish forever.

What do your duties as a captain entail?
For me, I feel like the primary role is caring for my teammates. Giving teammates rides, getting them lunch when they don't have any, helping them learn about the game and become better players. It also includes pushing them to be better players and people, even when they don't want to be pushed. I love all my teammates and I want them to be the best players and people they can be and that is what I consider to be my primary role as team captain.

What is your strongest leadership quality?
How much I care. I feel that the most important quality of a leader is being caring. If you care for the people you lead it will motivate you to work as hard as you can for them and make decisions that are unselfish and best for the group as a whole. I care a lot about my teammates, and classmates, and just people in general even if it doesn't always show and I feel like that is my best leadership quality.

How did you find and why did you choose Traci Sproule Photography for your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
She does all the photos for athletics and JCS and she did my older sister's senior photos. It was a lot of fun! Actually, a lot more fun than I thought it was going to be, I genuinely enjoyed it and it was a unique experience. Doing some photo shots that nobody else in our school has ever done, it was a really cool feeling.

Why is getting straight As important to you?
Colossian 3:23 "Whatever you do work heartily as for the Lord, and not for man." I believe that I should work hard at whatever I do regardless of what it is and if I really apply myself and work as hard as I can, I will get straight As in school. If I worked as hard as I possibly could and I ended up with a B in a class I would not be upset, I just know that if I really work hard I should have straight As and that's why it matters to me.

What do you like to do with the children at your church?
The main thing I do is I do the puppet show at the beginning of Sunday school. It's a lot of fun and the kids really enjoy it. It is always awesome when kids that have never been to the treehouse (what we call our Sunday school) come and see the puppet show for the first time. They always think it's awesome and it is a great feeling to have an impact on them like that.

What is the hardest part about being a role model to younger children? What is the best part?
The pressure of knowing that there are always eyes watching you. Whenever I think about doing or saying something I always have to think about the fact that there are people looking up to me and that I have to do the right thing. It can be very overwhelming at times, and I often feel a lot of pressure from it but I love the responsibility. I love the feeling of responsibility and I want to be a positive role model to as many kids as possible. A lot of people do not have positive role models in their lives and even a lot of my peers do not know what a true Christian teen looks like and the opportunity to be that example to them is so amazing.

What sports do you coach and supervise?
I coach intramural flag-football for 3rd-5th graders. It is a ton of fun and is one of my favorite times of every year.

What have you learned about yourself in this leadership role?
That I have a true passion for coaching. There are very few things I enjoy as much as coaching these kids. From making a play book, to calling plays, to running down the field as one of my players is about to score, to the smiles that are on their face after a win, I love every bit of coaching and I am so glad I took the opportunity a few years ago to try it for the first time.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I deeply care about our environment. I volunteered at loggerhead marine life center for 9 months, which is an animal hospital that rescues, rehabilitates, and releases sea turtles back into the wild. I am also always eager and willing to help anyone who needs help and asks for it. I have helped many elderly people from my church with projects that they cannot handle on their own, I spent time serving at urban youth impact helping kids to learn, and I have spent many weekends at the food bank helping to give out food to those who need it.

What else would you most like to talk about?
The thing I would most like to talk about is my faith. As a Christian the most important thing in my life is my faith and I would love to talk about how it shapes my life and drives all my decisions. All of my best traits I have because of my faith, and it is what drives me to work hard to make an impact on others’ lives.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
Once again it would be my faith. As someone who wants to go into ministry I would love to talk about the Bible to my peers and even more than that I would love to discuss it with them. I’ve had many interesting conversations with my peers about different aspect of my faith, the Bible, Christianity, etc. and I love it, very few things bring me the joy I get from answering their questions. Although talking about football would definitely be a close second to when it comes to topics I can talk forever about, my faith and the Bible would definitely be the topic I want to talk about the most.

Look for Matthew in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Tell us about your artwork and what you like to create.
I like to create realistic art of animals. I like my artwork to look and feel alive. I enjoy creating portraits of dogs because I am a huge dog lover. I plan to get a Golden Retriever one day. I just love our family dogs, Grizzly & Bear. They are Rottweilers that are 7 months and 6 months, and they are both the cutest dogs ever.

What is a favorite piece you've created?
My favorite drawing is of a brown and white Cocker Spaniel. I loved how I captured the wet nose and the glistening eyes.

What do you listen to while you create?
 I listen to Ruel and Arianna Grande when I am drawing. Music makes me happy and creates a happy environment while I’m doing my art.

What about your art do you hope inspires others?
To know that you are not too young to follow your dreams and you can be an artist at any age.

What is a proud moment in your art?
When I have won art competitions. I won 5th place in the district, and I received the Superintendent’s award last year. I received the outstanding artist award in the District Art show for my artwork “Big and Sweet Bulldog”, and my art was on display at UNT college of Visual Art and Design. I won 1st place in an art contest at school for two years in a row and received recognition at Young Artists Night.

​What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I love make-up. It's another way for me to express my art on my face. I love using different colors and designs to express myself. Another inspiring thing is I love to bake and cook with my mom and Gammie. My favorite dessert is homemade cinnamon rolls and bread.

What styles of makeup do you like to do the most?
 I like to do natural everyday makeup and glam makeup for special occasions. I like bold colors. I do eye art in my free time, take pictures, and post to Instagram for fun.

Where do you get your makeup inspiration from?
I get my make up inspiration from my older cousin Kailyn. She has been doing make up for years and I started watching her. Also, I get inspiration from a family friend Alana. She is a make up ambassador and has over 1000+ followers on Instagram. She’s good.

What is it about baking that you love the most?
I love being able to create different desserts and its stress-free at the same time.

​If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
If I were to present a topic to a group of peers it would be about having high self-esteem and the importance of being confident in who you are, loving yourself, and not worrying about what others think of you.

How did you find and why did you choose Thomas Edward Photography for your photographer?
 I was downtown in Frisco taking birthday pictures with my mom, and we met Thomas. He was there taking pictures of his daughter. He asked my mom what was the occasion? She replied Its Ravyn’s 14th Birthday today. He asked if he could take a few birthday pictures as a gift to me and my mom said yes. It was a nice birthday surprise.

What was your experience like?
What did you love most about it? It was very hot since we were outside. I was a little nervous at first, but then I became comfortable. I enjoyed taking the pictures.

What was your favorite thing you did this summer?
My favorite thing I did early this Summer was visiting California to celebrate my Great Grandmother’s 100th birthday. We had a huge party for her with lots of family and friends. I also had fun going to Disneyland for the first time and seeing the Hollywood sign.

What are you most looking forward to this school year?
I am looking forward to making good grades and making new friends. Also, I look forward to competitions with my choir, Bel Canto.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I ever had to accomplish was zip lining across a large lake and singing my first solo part in front of the school. I pretended no one was in the audience and I did it.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
My advice is that you must put effort into art and try your hardest. Never give up.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I see myself in college studying Art and maybe traveling. I hope to have my first car by then.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
My favorite activity is spending time with family. Going to my uncle and aunt’s house to swim and spending time with their dogs Grizzly and Bear. Also, I like to get recipes off Pinterest and Instagram and try making them.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
Yes, singing and I love all genres. My favorite artist is Ruel, Arianna Grande, Harry Stiles, and Sia.

3 Things on your bucket list – Going to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower, learn a new language probably French or Dutch (not sure yet what language yet), and to dye my hair gold.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find my mother inspiring because she is hard working and has good work ethics. My mom tries her best to always have a positive outlook on things. She is always laughing. My mom is my role model.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think I inspire others by being good at Art. I am a nice person that make my friends and family feel loved. I’m easy to talk to and I’m a good listener.

Look for Ravyn in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​How long have you been dancing and why do you love it so much?
I have been dancing for 15 years and I love it because I am able to express myself

What have you gained from being such a dedicated dancer?
I have gained time management skills, discipline, and how to stay on top of tasks without procrastinating.

What is a favorite memory from dance?
When I watched my friend perform her solo for the first time and we both cried at the end

What is a favorite dance accomplishment?
Winning first place overall for a group dance with my teammates.

What do you wish people knew about being a dancer?
I wish people knew the dedication and strength you must have to be able to be a dancer

How did you find and why did you choose Tish OConnor Photography for your senior photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
I saw many of my friends getting their photos done by her and they were stunning, everyone I have talked to knows Tish is also the sweetest person to work with and makes her sessions so unique and fun!
I had a great experience. I loved everything, but mostly how it felt so easy and fun!

What are you most looking forward to in your senior year?
Making memories with my friends and enjoying every last bit!

What will you miss most about your school and/or classmates?
The laughs, friendships, and school cafeteria fresh baked cookies are what I will miss the most.

​Where would we most likely find you and your friends?
Probably at our local park or Sheetz parking lot!

What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
I hope to leave behind morals of being kind to every person you meet because you never know what other people are going through.

What is a memory you cannot wait to make and with who? Why?
I look forward to going to college hopefully with my best friend, Kirsten, as my roommate!
​
What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover? 
Along with dancing, I am a member of the Montoursville Garden Club. We take care of local public gardens around the town. It is fun and a great opportunity to help out the community!

How did you get involved with Montoursville Garden Club and what do you love most about it?
I joined the garden club because of my mother’s involvement, I enjoy it because I love plants and flowers and helping to make the community more beautiful!

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
I would present the topic that balance is key in life. For example, it is important to work hard and get things done, but it is also just as important to relax and take it easy sometimes.

Look for Meggie in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Will Sullivan is a 4 year Varsity letterman in baseball, he is a left-handed pitcher. He received the MVP Award in Varsity Soccer and was Class VP in Young Men's Service League. Will attends Faith Lutheran High School in Las Vegas. He carries a 3.8 GPA and scored a 32 on his ACT! Will plans to attend college and major in Engineering with an emphasis in aeronautics. He has volunteered over 150 hours with various Las Vegas nonprofits, especially Opportunity Village and Catholic Charities. Will's hobbies are weight training, basketball, and has recently built a 9,000 piece Lego replica of the Titanic. Will is a senior who is good at many things and has a bright future ahead!

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I am a leader on and off the baseball field. I take pride in inspiring younger athletes.

What else would you most like to talk about?
I would love to talk about my service with the Young Mens Service League.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
If I could talk to my peers I would talk about the importance of learning math and science. A lot of my friends struggle with these subjects, but I think they are so important if you plan to go on to college.

Look for Will in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Nihal is a compassionate young scholar. He founded an organization called The Project Spark. The organization has introduced many young students in underserved areas to STEM. He is also a published author for a children’s book( I May Be Small but I Am a Lion At Heart). All proceeds of the book are going to be donated. He also enjoys playing golf and is one of the top players on his Varsity golf team. He has received many awards including: Turlock Varsity Achievement Award, First Team All-League, CCAL Academic All-League and National Merit Award for Quality Education.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I have a passion to make a positive impact on my community. Along with my inspirational and impactful projects mentioned in my nomination; I am also a volunteer host/reporter on a non-profit teen radio show, Express Yourself. A radio show which is about, by, and for teens. Teens are able to express themselves about the latest topics ranging from health, wellness, technology, climate, etc. I inspire and educate teens with the latest health and wellness topics all over the world.

What else would you most like to talk about?
I would love to express the importance of mental health for all ages; especially teens. After the pandemic, it is even more essential to balance and keep our mental state healthy and happy. There are many ways to stay mentally healthy. The first three basic practices for better mental health are: eating healthy, consistent physical activity (yoga), and finding that positive mentor, friend, or family member who you can talk to when you feel the need. The motto that helps keep me mentally happy is to start everyday fresh and be the best version of yourself.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
The topic I would love to rant about passionately is golf. My grandfather introduced me to golf when I was six. Once I fell in love with golf, I practiced daily. I watched the golf channel to learn from professionals and worked with coaches to help me improve. I have learned so much from my beloved sport, taking in wisdom and then turning around to share these lessons with my community. Golf lets me focus wholly on what I am trying to achieve and let distractions go. It helps me maintain patience and pushes me to learn from my failures.

Look for Nihal in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Madison inspires me by always speaking kindly, speaking up for those who can’t, including everyone, never judges and always sees the good in everyone. She makes me want to be a better person! When most go with the crowd, Madison doesn’t. She stands with her morals and I applaud her.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I play basketball, and I hope that would inspire other young girls that they can play any sports or do anything that they put their mind to.

What else would you most like to talk about?
I would most likely talk about my relationship with Jesus, and how He has changed my life for the better.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
I would take about my relationship with Jesus Christ and my love for people. Jesus has given me a heart to love others with and that’s something that I’m very grateful for.

Look for Madison in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Macey is a big-hearted, outgoing, artistic senior from Cincinnati. She loves life, people, and all things whimsical and free. Macey loves to create using all sorts of mediums, especially sculpting beautiful things. It is that passion that has Macey planning to pursue a career in Anaplastology, a branch of medicine dealing with prosthetic rehabilitation.
If you were to ask Macey what she plans to do with her one wild and precious life, she would share with you her desire to help others live life to its fullest potential; a life of joy, confidence, and awareness of their self-worth and beauty.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
An interesting fact about myself is that I have a heart for vintage things. My great-grandmother was an antique dealer. Perhaps it is the part of her I carry within me that has given me that love. Everything has a story to tell! I love retro fashion and shoes! Music is also a passion of mine. I am especially fond of music from the 80s!

What else would you most like to talk about?
I would like to encourage people to use their personal gifts and strengths to benefit others and the world around them. We need each other!

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
I truly believe in helping others and enriching the lives of others in any way I can. It is such a rewarding way to live. Therefore, I would talk to my peers about my endeavor to become an Anaplastologist. Anaplastology is an uncommon occupation that deals with the prosthetic rehabilitation of missing or disfigured anatomically critical parts of the face or body. Basically, it is the process of creating a new limb, eye, nose, ear, or whatever prosthetic is needed to enable a person to look as natural as possible.

Look for Macey in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Liliane Evangelista, a student in the Rogers Honor Academy, does volunteering through a club at the schools. Her goals are to graduate with honors, so she would have the opportunity to apply to the top 100th universities in the country. She is apart of the swimming team; this will be her second year in this team. She has made a lot improvement in swimming, and she loves being apart of a team. She also does CrossFit twice a week with me (her mom). At the moment, she is not doing any activity at Interact Club/Rotary. During the summer, she'd babysitting a few kids, and she just now got her permit. Recently, she started her first job. Lili has proven that her ADD can't stop her from achieving her goals; she has to do a little more work than others. Even though she learns at different pace than the other kids, Lili will be the first person in her family to go to college! She is an introvert, yet she has a beautiful soul.
-Diana Castillo

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Inspiring things about me that my nomination does not cover is that I try to keep my grades maintained. Likewise, I'd keep a good GPA for college and the Rogers Honor Academy.

What else would you like to talk about?
I most like to talk about in my interview is how I'd be the first person in my family to go to college, and the first person in my family to also get a degree. Speaking of, both sides of my family have never had a family member go to college before.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
If I were to present a topic to a group of my peers, the topic would be Math. Math is the one thing that made sense to me when I struggled so much with reading, writing, and etc. My topic would be about how we all learn different at divergent speeds. In fact, everyone has dissimilar ideas of solving unalike solutions. Such as, one pair of shoe doesn't fit everyone the same way. Overall, I feel like that is an issue that I'm passionate to talk about.

Look for Liliane in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Kylie is an amazing person. She has a huge heart for animals. She’s also wonderful big sister.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I will be the first person to come to the aid of someone in need and will fight for truth and right.
I also have struggled with anxiety-especially social anxiety-for years but have worked on overcoming these obstacles. It is something I deal with daily and have not always felt understood and supported and this has given me a huge heart for others that deal with the same things.

What else would you most like to talk about?
I am most comfortable talking about my love for animals. I would talk about my battle with anxiety, but that would be more difficult for me.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
How to select and care for the breed of dog that will fit best with you and your life style. I have a heart for animals. I used to go to the library and read book after book on different breeds of dogs.

Look for Kylie in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Kait Tyler is a sophomore at Flower Mound High School and a second-year team member on the world-renowned Flower Mound High School Color Guard. She balances an intense practice schedule for a sport she has been perfecting since the spring semester of 6th grade. She juggles effortlessly high school, color guard, and this past summer, one of her high school wishes turned into a reality when she was invited to be a Premier Model with Allen David Photography. When she graduates from college, she wants to join the Army and train to become an ER Doctor.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
My inspiring things may seem small to some, but were big to me, were the educational delays I experienced as a younger child. As I have gotten older, my challenges seem so small compared to those with more significant life challenges. Despite that, I still lived through them. I am grateful every day that I have the most supportive parents and was provided the best educational support to get me the help I needed to be successful.

What else would you most like to talk about?
The journey I've taken over the years to find my true self and learn to love myself, even though I'm different from most children.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
I would speak about "It's okay to not be okay". I have struggled with a few setbacks growing up and I have not always been comfortable with them. It's taken me years to find my true self. My experience through those adversities has only made me stronger.

Look for Kait in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Jaden Carey is a true multi-sport athlete, competing in cheer (football and basketball) competition, dance, and track and field. She is a captain on her high school cheer team and 2-time state qualifier in long jump, 1 time in high jump and relay team, an All-State track athlete, and national qualifier in both high jump and long jump, and still has her senior year remaining. But more important than that, Jaden is a leader in the classroom, with her peers, and our youth. Jaden is highly respected be her teachers, staff, and classmates. She volunteers at our local summer safety town program, cheer camp, and track and field camp, and is a member of the national honor society. After high school Jaden hopes to compete at the collegiate level in track and field. As her coach, and photographer, I cannot speak high enough about her character as a person. I, personally, have learned from her and she has made me a better person.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I am very competitive and driven yet get just as excited about other people's victories and or accomplishments as I do my own.
It's an amazing thing to see someone work so hard at something and reach their goals.
I love to be helpful, make people laugh, and basically treat others how I want to be treated.
I live a pretty calm and modest life.
They say a person needs just three things in life to be happy.
Someone to love, something to do, and something to hope for.
I pretty much strive for each every day.
What else would you most like to talk about?
I am going 24/7 with some sort of activity in my life.
I have done competitive dance since I was five years old.
We train all year, on average three to four days a week.  Dance carries into my other activities throughout the year.
I have been a Cheerleader and Track athlete  since I was in 7th grade.
Cheer and Dance then overlap into Track and Field season.
I am not going to lie, it is really tough at times.
You have to add schoolwork as well as volunteer activities into the mix of schedules.
How do I juggle it all and make time to be a kid?
 
If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
My parents were told before I was born that I would not likely live past ten years old. They were also told that I would always be very sick and would never be able to do much physically.
Needless to say, my parents took their chances.
I have very supportive parents who have always encouraged me to reach for the stars in all I do.  My parents have taught me that no matter the obstacle anything is possible.
I know not everyone has that support.  I love to help others and provide the support I grew up with.
There is not a goal unreachable. You just have to put in the hard work and, have faith to achieve your dreams.
I would like to compete in Track and Field while in college as well as enroll in Pre-Med.
I want to do these things that were deemed impossible and do them well.
I want to be that doctor that gave my parents hope and gave me a happy and healthy life I love.
 
Look for Jaden in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
​

Nomination: Emma Garvis is very passionate about her friends and family. at a young age, Emma became interested in cardiac care due to her dad's cardiac failure issues. Emma has danced her entire life and she has performed her way into the position of 1st Lieutenant on her high school drill team. At school, she helps with the special needs dance class. This ignited her second interest in special education. As a member of The Legacy League, she volunteers at the local animal shelter, and manages to balance two jobs. Emma has a heat of gold and is truly an inspiring teen!

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
For the past year, I have been struggling with depression. It has been an ongoing battle but I can proudly say that I have found a way to overcome depression and I want to share that with not only teenagers, but with everyone. Talking about mental health is something that society needs more of. I also would like people to know and understand more about special needs children. A lot of people in the public school system don't even know that there are ways to interact and make friends with these kids. Special needs children need more recognition for the things they overcome since they put a smile on everyone's face!

What else would you most like to talk about?
I would talk about how the big bad things that happen in your life do not define you. The things that happen in your life may be considered bad, are the things that make you stronger and you have the power to not let it drag you down. It is important for teenagers to understand that we can choose to rise up in those situations instead of sinking down. Even be a positive example for others and show that it is okay!

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
I would pick about the importance of the future. Many high school students struggle with not knowing what to do after they graduate. I was one of them until I found my "why" in life. I always heard the phrase "You have to have a know what you want to do in order to succeed!" I want teenagers to know that it is ok to have no clue what to do right after high school. The only thing that is important is your happiness! Be proactive - a path will open up!

Look for Emma in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Emma Bunting is an inspiring teen because she is determined, ambitious, and strong. She is a student athlete who strives first in the classroom and continues her success on the volleyball court. She takes the leadership skills she has learned as an athlete to volunteer in the community with children by ways of making holiday baskets and assisting at sports camps.
Life has thrown her many curveballs during her high school career, between covid and the unfortunate shooting at her high school. Emma's perseverance and resiliency has proven to her that everyday is a new day and a chance to make the world a better place. She hopes to help make the world better and spread kindness everywhere she goes.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I consider myself the best friend that will always be there for you. I am a caring individual who will always be by your side and offer support. It makes me happy when I can offer my help to my friends, family and community.

What else would you most like to talk about?
I would like to mostly talk about overcoming the trauma and PTSD that I have encountered from my school shooting. It has not been easy, but I am determined to not let this take control of my life. I was not looking forward to stepping back into my school 2 months after November 30th. When I did, I realized that I was braver than what I thought. I'd like to tell my story about overcoming fear and becoming stronger every day.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
Social Media- This is how our generation communicates nowadays, which comes with good and bad effects. For example, we can use social media to communicate with others who we are distanced from. However, there is a lot of fake news that gets spread quickly which creates conflicts.

Look for Emma in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Chloe Tyler is a sophomore at Flower Mound High School and a second-year team member on the world-renowned Flower Mound High School Color Guard. She balances an intense practice schedule for a sport she decided to try on a whim 3 days before tryouts in the spring semester of her 8th-grade year! She juggles effortlessly high school, color guard, and this past summer, one of her high school dreams turned into a reality when she was invited to be a Premier Model with Allen David Photography. Her goal is to be a Crime Scene Analyst or a Doctor.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
My educational delays as a young child inspire me, but they are also some of my most interesting traits. The people I have met on my journey are some that I will never forget. The teachers who helped me along the way are now parents of students with whom I attend school with or I get to invite them to watch me perform a sport that they used to play when they were younger (FMHS Color Guard). As a result of those experiences, I am grateful for the most loving teachers and devoted parents. My success today would not be possible without these people.

What else would you most like to talk about?
Always be yourself, even if it feels different, always be yourself. Don't hide any part of you that makes you, you.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
Find your tribe. It's about people who accept you for who you are, not what they want you to be. Your tribe will accept the loud crazy laugh you have or the exciting way that you speak. It is important to realize that your tribe will love you when you are at your best, but most importantly when you are at your worst. If they don't, cut them loose. Your tribe is out there. Whether it be 1 person or 50 of them, they are out there. You deserve to be accepted for who you are. Don't settle for anything less!

Look for Chloe in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Charity is one of the most joyful people I have had the pleasure of working with. She puts a smile on everyone's face! She is an exceptional teen, who is both beautiful inside and out. Charity is also an incredibly dedicated and hard working student athlete. She always gives 100% and she is a true leader. Her positive energy is contagious and inspiring to not only her teammates but to anyone around her!

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Something inspiring about me that was not mentioned in the nomination would be my perseverance through tough challenges. In 2020, I tore my left ACL and had reconstruction surgery on it. I was able to recover with a lot of hard work in physical therapy, as well as with my high school athletic trainer, to return to basketball even stronger than I was before.

What else would you most like to talk about?
I would like to talk about how I am a leader in my school as well as on my basketball and track teams. I am heavily involved in my high school and am proud to represent Hamilton Southeastern!

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
I am from Indiana and am passionate about Indycar racing. I even attend the Indianapolis 500 every year. It is something unique about me and I know quite a bit about it. I always follow along with the series and I could talk forever about it!

Look for Charity in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Aiden Bulloch is the most inspiring person I know. He unexpectedly lost his father at the age of 11, and had to step up to take care of his family. He pushed through every challenge life has thrown at him, and maintained a 4.0 GPA, and is a starting varsity lineman who was just named player of the week.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I like to help mentor other young guys who have also lost their father. I also love helping youth football players especially the offensive line.

What else would you most like to talk about?
I would like to talk about my perseverance through hardships as I feel that is one of my strongest qualities.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
I think I would talk about what it really means to be a man.

Look for Aiden in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​What would you most like to talk about in your interview? 
How we can make a difference just being kind and smiling. It doesn’t take money or stardom to make a difference, we can all do it. Love one another. Smile. Sit with the person that is sitting alone. Go talk to the person who looks sad or nervous. 
 
What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover? 
I make cinch sacks for the homeless in Cincinnati. I want to help make sure they have their essentials they need. Refillable water bottles, hand sanitizer, socks, soap, toothbrushes, toothpastes, combs, etc. it is really inexpensive to do this at the Dollar Store and makes a huge difference in someone’s life.
 
What made you decide to do this and how did you get started?
I had seen on tv that homeless shelters needed certain items. I asked Mom to take me shopping and decided to make cinch sacks myself so that they could carry them wherever they go and have what they need.

What is your process from collecting to distributing?
As I earn money, I go shopping and get reusable water bottles, snacks, socks, band aids, sanitizer, deodorant, toothbrushes, and other necessities and collect them to make the cinch sacks. 
 
Do you have help in this or do you go in alone?
My Mom helps and makes suggestions depending on the seasons. For example, in the colder months we will include gloves, scarfs, beanie hats, etc. She also chips in when I run out of money shopping.
 
What have you learned about the world & people in general through this endeavor? 
How surprised I am at some of the stories of the homeless and how they got there. Some were so successful at one time. I've learned we need to look out for each other because it could happen to any one of us.
 
What have you learned about yourself? 
I can still change someone's life and give them hope and encouragement. It doesn't take much. Sometimes no money at all. Just listening. I definitely want to do more.

How did you find and why did you chooseT-Bird Photography for your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most about it? 
Trish Wilson is a friend of my moms and her daughter and I have been friends for 8 years. She is a fantastic photographer. Very fun and relaxing. Trish is funny and makes photo shoots fun.
 
What was a favorite memory from this summer?
Our dance team competed and won at Nationals. We were able to sneak in some hang out time at the beach as well.
 
What are you most looking forward to for this school year? 
Making fun memories with my friends. It is also my first year ever cheerleading, so I am really looking forward to that.
 
What is a family tradition you hope never ends? 
Drinking Eggnog on Christmas Eve.
 
What do you love doing most with your friends? 
Going to high school games, movies, or being poolside.
 
Where would we find you if you had a day of nothing to do and all day to do it? 
At the dance studio.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
Removing myself from a toxic environment. Thankfully, I have a great support system at home that supported me and made it possible for me to make the adjustments.
 
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
You can be! You can be anything you want or do anything you want. 95% of the battle is staying out of your own head. Just do it!
 
Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I'm hoping to have landed a role on Broadway. If not, then I will definitely be doing auditions. A lot of the roles are for ages 18+ In 5 years I will be 18.
 
What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
Cheerleading
 
Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I am a really good cook and baker. I do everything from scratch. I also sing and play piano.
 
3 Things on your bucket list
1. Be in a Broadway Production
2. Bungee jump
3. Travel the world
 
Who do you find inspiring?
My Mom. She always works so hard, has more than one job and is very successful even though she always puts herself last. She puts all of us kids first. She is our biggest fan!
 
What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think I am inspiring because I cheer others on and uplift them. I also think I am adventurous and will jump in and try anything. If it doesn't work then I learn and try again. I work hard! Hard work pays off.
 
Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I am very grateful to Inspiring Teens Magazine, T-Bird Photography, and my friend Ava, for giving me this amazing opportunity!

Look for Brooklyn in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!
 

What would you most like to talk about in your interview?
The gift of the opportunity fostering animals brings.

Tell us about the animals you foster.
The animals we have taken in have been puppies and kittens that came from situations that were not going to give them the best life possible.

What is your favorite part of fostering animals?
I think seeing the transformation of their behavior and appearance is the most rewarding part of fostering.

What is a memorable moment with one of these animals?
There was one time when we had 3 puppies and one of them learned how to sit. We were in the kitchen and I told him to sit and his sisters looked at him and did the same thing to get a treat.

What have you learned about yourself while fostering animals?
I have learned that this is a good way of therapy for myself and for them.

What do you wish others knew about fostering animals?
I wish people knew that it is not a waste of time. Fostering animals is very rewarding because you get the feeling of helping a pet in need.

How did you find and why did you choose Bird on a Wire Photography for your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
She is a family friend who also photographed my aunt and uncles senior pictures.
My experience with Bird on a Wire Photography was very enjoyable. During the whole shoot, there were lots of smiles and a variety of different locations/poses.

What are you most looking forward to for your senior year?
This year I am excited for change. I have not had a normal high school year because of COVID and because of the shooting that happened November 30th.

What will you miss most about high school?
I think I will miss seeing all my friends in the same place every day.

What is a favorite high school memory?
My favorite high school memory is when my swim coach would get in the water and do our set with us.

​What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I am enrolled in an early college program at oxford high school and became a medical assistant at the age of 16.

What did you need to do to enroll early?
To get into the early college program, I had to go through an application process to make sure I had the ability to be successful in the courses.

What was the program like that you studied?
The program that I am in has had some times where I had felt overwhelmed because I was in multiple college classes on top of the high school classes I was in also.

What are you doing now as a medical assistant?
As a medical assistant, I am taking vitals of patients that come into the office, registering them into our system, and learning more about medical science from the providers.

What do you love most about it?
I think my favorite part of my job is learning about different illnesses from our providers because they are doing the job that I want to do when I am out of school.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
The way we have the chance to completely change an animals life within a short period of time

Look for Leilah in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Nomination: Natalie Morrow excels in both academics and athletics, leading her senior class not only in rank but also in student engagement. Natalie wears many titles, including Student Council President, Junior Rotarian, and MVP of her varsity soccer team. Natalie’s personal journey however is what fuels her determination. She grew up with a parent that suffers from Epilepsy, which has impacted her future endeavors. Endeavors which include working in the biomedical field to engineer prosthetic devices and develop technologies to further treatment for epileptic patients.

​What does it mean to you to be at the top of your class?
Being at the top of my class has been an achievement that I have been able to be proud of. These last four years of high school, I have been working my absolute hardest, which has led to many late nights and stressful weekends. I am grateful to be acknowledged for the time and effort that I have put in to best prepare me for my future.

What do your duties entail being Student Council President and why do you love the position?
The responsibility of our Student Council President is to organize all our school's events and be the representative of our school in our community. Currently we are working on organizing our biggest event: Homecoming Week. There is a lot to do, but we have an outstanding council that is volunteering their time to make this week the best it can be. I love the position because I can meet so many new people through all of our events and I feel like I am helping to better my community.

What is your strongest leadership quality?
My strongest leadership quality is my positivity. I do not like to be the person that puts others down because they are not feeling well themselves. A positive mindset provides an optimistic outlook on life. I do not feel discouraged when something doesn’t end up working out when planning something. Instead, I see it as an opportunity for something better to be put in its place. Leaders are an example to others and if the leader is optimistic, the followers are as well, and an overall better atmosphere is created.

​Tell us about your soccer career. When did you get started and where are you with it now?
I have been playing soccer for most of my life. I started playing recreational soccer when I was three years old. When I turned five, I began to play travel soccer and have continued until now. Our travel soccer season is in the fall with our high school season in the spring. This sport has a special place in my heart, and I couldn’t imagine not playing at all. This summer, I committed to playing collegiate soccer at Monmouth College and I am very excited for it!

What is a favorite accomplishment from soccer?
My favorite accomplishment from soccer had to have been when my team and I ended up in second place in the Illinois State Cup. We spent so many hours practicing together and I loved to see that our results showed our hard work.

What else would you like to talk about?
I would like to talk about the balance that I have created throughout the years of juggling athletics, academics, and helping the community. I would also like to talk about the skills that I have been able to acquire in my experiences throughout the years. I want to share how I am able to use these skills to better my community and show others how to do the same.

What are you doing now to prepare you for a future in the biomedical field?
I am planning on majoring in engineering in college in order to better understand how I can apply the mechanical aspects of engineering to the biomedical field. Being able to combine both mechanical and biomedical fields together will best prepare me to make a significant contribution in the community.

What do you wish everyone knew about epilepsy?
First and foremost, I want everyone to know that not all epilepsy is the same. There of course is epilepsy where the person experiences convulsions, but there are also types of epilepsy where the seizures occur when the person stares off into space, fidgets, etc. The stigma of seizures only being convulsions is false. There is not a universal treatment for epileptic people. There are many different medications that people can take to help manage their seizures, but people should also know that medication doesn’t always work. My parent takes multiple seizure medications currently, but they still have seizures.

How did you find and why did you choose Sheila Harris for your photographer?
Sheila has been a family friend all of my life. I have been friends with her daughter for as long as I can remember. Sheila would always bring her camera to all of the different events that we went to growing up. Her pictures have always looked so amazing! These past few years she has really invested in her passion for photography and I am so happy for her. She truly has an eye for the perfect pictures.

What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
My experience was the best! We chose a library theme for this specific session, and I had a blast! We had a lot of good photos and Sheila had many different ideas that she wanted to try out with us. Sheila has always made taking photos quick and easy while also keeping the atmosphere lighthearted. I am going back for another photo session this October and I am so excited!

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
In my nomination, I was not able to include my involvement in my school’s Foster’s Voice Suicide Awareness Club. This club is very important to me because I am a strong advocate towards mental health. A few friends and I work with Foster’s parents to inform our community that, “It’s okay not to be okay.” We are leaders of this club and work together with the Gray Matters Collective, another mental health awareness group. Our goal is to break the stigma of mental health and to create a safe space for anyone to go to if they are struggling.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
A topic that I would be able to present to a group would be about Academic Burnout. Academic Burnout is losing the motivation to do any school work and will often lead to symptoms of anxiety and depression. As we are all moving away from COVID-19, we have been thrown into many different learning environments and students are struggling with all of the adjustments. I was constantly fighting burnout these last few years and I want to prevent this situation from being repeated in others. Raising awareness is only the first step before action can be taken to help.

Look for Natalie in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​Nomination: Maegan Koval is inspiring for many reasons! She is a member of the National Honor Society at Tyngsboro High School in MA. She's a class assistant at Centerstage Dance Academy where she has been dancing for 14yrs. She regularly volunteers for various school events, Barrington Shores Campground, and the Halloween party at Alpha Martial Arts Academy. She was also part of her high school theatre program. Maegan also received the principal's award 3 years in a row and outstanding achievement in business and social studies. She has been part of DECA for 2 years.

Tell us about your dance career.
I started dance when I was 2 years old at Centerstage Dance Academy and still take classes there to this day. I also am a class assistant at the studio and love getting to help the younger dancers learn to dance.

What about dance do you find most inspiring?
I find dance inspiring because I see it as a powerful way to share stories and convey emotions without speaking and instead telling the story through your movements.

What has dance taught you?
Dance has taught me to believe in myself and to never give up even when something seems impossible.

What has been your favorite dance performance so far and why?
My favorite dance performance so far was a recital my studio put on a few years ago where each dance was based on a board game. I found it so fun to see different board games come to life in the form of dance numbers and it was our first in person show since the pandemic so that made it extra special to be able to see everyone again and perform in front of a real audience.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I was battling an ankle injury all last dance season and was told that I may never dance again but I pushed through and made a full recovery, proving to myself and everyone else that I can overcome any obstacle that comes my way.

​If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
If I were to present a topic to a group of my peers, I think it would have to be dance because it has been such a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. I have so many memories inside of the dance studio that I would love to share as well as the many lessons that dance has taught me through the years.

Tell us about your family.
My family may be crazy at times but they are truly my biggest supporters and I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to grow up around. My Grammy is one of the funniest and kindest people I know and I cherish every moment I get to spend with her. I also have four dogs that I love very much and a few pet chickens!

What is a favorite family memory?
A favorite family memory of mine has to be one of the many times we have gone to the Topsfield Fair in Topsfield, MA. I love going to see all the different animals and attractions and riding all of the rides. In my opinion, no trip to the fair is complete without a handmade wooden spinning top and a warm bowl of apple crisp!

How did you find and why did you choose Photography by Andrea for your photographer?
Andrea’s daughters take dance classes with me so I got to know her through them and after I saw some of the dance photos she had taken for them, as well as other dance students’ senior photos, I knew that she had to be the one to take my senior photos!

What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
My whole photo shoot with Andrea was super fun and she made sure that I was comfortable and having a good time throughout the whole process. Other than the amazing location and photographer, I really loved getting to have my dog Penny at the shoot with me and taking some cute photos with her.

What does being part of NHS mean to you and what do you love most about it?
Being a part of NHS is very important to me because I believe that we should all look for any opportunity to lend a helping hand and branch out within our communities. I love being a part of NHS because I love getting to help others through various volunteer activities.

What volunteer activities have you done?
I volunteer at Barrington Shores Campground in Barrington, NH over the summers setting up and putting on various camp activities for all campers to enjoy. I also volunteer at Tyngsboro’s Festival of Trees and the Tyngsboro Block Party, as well as the yearly Halloween Party at Alpha Martial Arts Academy. Also, I am a class assistant at Centerstage Dance Academy and volunteer some of my free time there teaching young kids to dance.

Which has been your favorite and why?
My favorite volunteer activity has to be assisting dance classes because I love getting to know the little ones and sharing my passion for dance with them. I just find it so special that I get to watch them grow as dancers throughout the season and get to help them learn to love dance like my teachers and assistants did for me growing up.

​What is your involvement in your HS theatre program?
I was an actor within my high school’s theatre program for 1 year and my middle school’s program for 2 years. I was an assistant choreographer as well, helping out both the high school and middle school programs with choreography for musical numbers.

What has been a favorite memory from theatre?
A favorite memory from my theatre career is our pre-show pep talks because they were always heartfelt, ended in a tear-filled group hug and got everyone feeling ready to perform at their best!

What is the principal's award and what does this prestigious award mean to you?
The principal’s award is an award given to students who maintain a high GPA throughout the course of the school year. This award is special to me because it recognizes the academic achievement that I strive for each school year and I have been given this award 3 times in a row.

What have you learned from being a part of DECA?
DECA has taught me how to really step out of my comfort zone and try new things.

What is your strongest leadership quality?
I think that loyalty is my strongest leadership quality because whenever I tell someone that I will do something, I make sure to stay true to my word and get whatever it is done. I also always honor my commitments when volunteering and make sure that I am there and ready to work on time.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I plan to go to college to study sports medicine next year and after I graduate college, I would like to be an athletic trainer and hopefully get to work in a professional sports league. I also would like to travel at some point and explore places that I haven’t been before.

3 Things on your bucket list
1. Visit Paris and see the Eiffel Tower.
2. Swim with sharks.
3. See the Northern Lights

Who do you find inspiring?
I find my best friend Ada-Nicole Sanger very inspiring because she is a professional actress and a singer/songwriter and I admire how much she cares about the people she loves and doesn’t let anything change who she is.

Look for Maegan in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

​Tell us about your karate/kickboxing career. How did you get started and where are you with it now?
I started when I was four. I got into it when they came to my school and taught a short mini-lesson. Ever since then I fell in love with it and was put into tournaments right away. As soon as I got my black belt at the age of nine, I knew I wanted to do more. I went to my first out-of-state tournament in Chicago and had a wonderful experience. I then continued to do more and more out-of-state tournaments eventually out of the country. I then fulfilled my dreams of being on Team USA and had an opportunity to train the next generation. I started as an instructor from then moved up to a director of the school.

What is your schedule like for training and competing?
It is very difficult to maintain a good balance between academics, training, and work and also having time for fun. During weekdays it goes something like this: wake up, train for an hour, go to school, come home, train for an hour, go to work, and then go to bed. On weekends I give myself a little break and go to work then have fun.

What is a favorite accomplishment from kickboxing?
Having earned a spot twice on Team USA Kickboxing and competed in Ireland and Guatemala. I was able to meet so many different people as well as experience so many things that no other kid my age has ever.
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​Tell us about traveling with karate to compete internationally and nationally.
Nationally competing consists of red-eye flights and weekend “vacations” once a month. It is hard to find time to go out and see the places I traveled to because of my competitive mindset. My family and I usually take a day to sightsee nationally. I’ve seen so much of the world including over 20 states and five countries. When we go across the sea we take about a week and make an actual vacation of it. However last time I had an opportunity to do my own thing and go to Ireland with my team and be independent. Which was an enjoyable experience.

What have you learned about yourself teaching others about the sport?
I learned to be patient and always just listen and be a good role model you never know who is watching. One of my littles who was 3 had a huge family and I was teaching one day, and he gave me the biggest hug ever. I was shocked because he is very quiet and keeps to himself. He said thank you and smiled. I didn’t know what I did or how I did it, but I know somehow some way I made an impact. Even with young girls, I have a Barbie named after me and she wants to do everything I do. It warms my heart so much I can be of such a big impact. I also learned patience. The youngest I’ve taught is two. At two you have to take a lot of time and energy to get what needs to be done aka class techniques. It is so fun seeing their personalities change as well as mine as the years go on. It’s something I would never give up.

​How did you find and why did you choose Courtney James for your photographer?
What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
Courtney is also been an amazing lash tech. I met her through that and saw some of her work and loved her style. She was able to go to my favorite location in MN, Stillwater. I loved water and photos, and she was able to accommodate both. I got amazing shots in the water which I loved! Also, well as hundreds of amazing other pictures.

What activities are you involved in school?
I was a member of the student council. As a member of the Council, I was able to make positive decisions for the student body. As well as attend a state convention with the council and see how other schools tackle different issues.

Do you have a job? Tell us about it.
I have a few jobs. I work at target both in the front end being a Guest Advocate and as well as in Starbucks. I also work as a personal stylist at Buckle. I create outfits for all types of events. Also being a Director at National karate were, I teach students and other instructors, as well as learn the business side of things.

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What else would you like to talk about?
I would also like to talk about my experience at college. I walked into college not your traditional student. My first semester was as a Junior in High school taking 13 credits. As well as still attending high school. It was a major learning curve finding a balance in this new academic life. I met a ton of new people and learned about topics I could not even imagine. It was an experience that help me down the line in college and I would highly recommend it.

What is your schedule like going to college full time and attending high school as a senior?
I attend college on campus as well as online. I have no high school classes left to take which enables me to be on campus full-time.

What made you decide to be a heart surgeon?
 I have always wanted to be in the medical field. I had a lot of interest in the heart and its functions. It is what keeps us going yet is so complex. I was able to do a dissection and it became a passion and a cultivated interest of mine.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be?
Starting karate at the age of 5 and working my way up to becoming a school director. I love teaching younger girls and boys to be stronger, more confident, and more disciplined for their future. Having the opportunity to represent my country while competing in a sport I love. As well as being a role model it has taught me lessons that are priceless.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
The hardest thing I have accomplished was getting my black belt. Through years of training and countless hours, I was able to earn it at the young age of nine.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
Trust that it will all work out. Everything happens for a reason.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I see myself in medical school. Hopefully in Florida spending time with loved ones on a beach.
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What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
Driving around. I love to just sit and drive and listen to music.

3 Things on your bucket list
Go to Italy 2. Buy a fancy car 3. Learn another language

Nomination: Nora Elkhyati is beautiful on the inside and out. She is one of those people the searches for other girls on the fringe (you know... the ones who are different, shy, or just don't quite fit in) and has a talent of drawing them into the main group and including them. She is a friend to everyone! She is a competitive dancer at Pennsylvania Performing Arts Center, Wilson High School cheerleader and enjoys snowboarding in the winter. She dreams to become an attorney in family law.

​Tell us about your family.
My family is my biggest supporter. My mother has always encouraged me to take risks and challenge myself. She has taught me that life is an opportunity and not to let self-doubt influence my choices. My grandfather is the bravest and strongest person I know. He served in the Air Force and traveled the world playing multiple sports. He even went to the Olympics for bobsledding! When I always need someone to talk to, I know he is there to listen.

What do you like to do most with your family?
I love our big extended family beach vacations we all do together once a year!

What is a favorite family memory and/or tradition?
Every year, my family meets at my aunt’s house for Thanksgiving. I have made the best memories spending time with them and eating good food!

​Tell us about your dance career.
I started dance when I was 3 years old and this is now my 15th year dancing. Dance has taught me resilience and perseverance. There may be times where you can’t get a skill, or even fall on stage while your performing, but you can’t let that affect your confidence. I love to dance because it allows me to put my feelings into motion.

What types of dances do you study and which is your favorite? Why?
I study all types of dance, but my favorites are jazz, hip hop, and contemporary. These types of dance are completely different, and that is why they are my favorites. Each type of dance makes me feel something different.

What is your cheer team like?
My cheer team is so friendly and fun to be around. I love going to the games every Friday night and cheering with them.

What is a favorite accomplishment with cheer?
My favorite accomplishment with cheer is getting to do all the stunts I can do now. When I first started, I always saw the older girls do these challenging stunts and was always inspired by it. Now I am able to do them and inspire the other young girls who were like me.

What do you think people might not know about dance and cheer?
People might not know that dance and cheer are both sports, and take just as much time and athleticism as every other sport.

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​How do you help show young girls how to believe in themselves?
I believe that showing young girls all of the hard things that I had to overcome will make them believe they can do it as well. Making sure that they know they are not alone, and always being there for them in a time of need. I also lead by example and show what amazing things you can achieve when you push yourself.

Why did you choose Patti Connolly (Picture Perfect by Patti) for your photographer? What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
Patti photographs my dance studio’s pictures every year. She does an amazing job and is so sweet. I loved my shoot with her, because she is able to capture a beautiful moment of expression. I especially love her timing in an action shot! She always gets the perfect look!

What will you be doing at your internship?
I will be working at a law office for my internship. I will be doing numerous things around the office and will have many opportunities to attend court. I am so excited for this internship opportunity and love the people I am working with.

What are you most looking forward to learning from it?
It is a passion of mine to become a lawyer. I am most excited about getting the experience of what I will be doing in the future, especially attending court cases that I worked on.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
 My favorite activity is painting because it makes me feel calm.
 
3 Things on your bucket list
I would love to go to Egypt since that is where my family is from, attend law school, and learn how to speak Arabic. 

Look for Nora in issue 59 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

How important is it to you to support and be there for friends and family? Why?
It’s very important to me. I feel everyone should have someone who listens to them, especially when times are hard.
What are some favorite things to do with your friends?
My friends and I love to go to the beach or hang out in our local community.
 
What is a favorite tradition with your family that you hope never ends?
My family and I aren’t the traditional type, but we do make it a priority to get together every holiday. All my family comes together, and we make amazing memories.
 
What is a favorite thing you've done with your family this summer?
We took a trip to visit my aunt in Utah Salt Lake City. We try to go every summer to visit them. This year I brought my boyfriend to show him around Utah.
 
What are you most looking forward to this next school year?
I’m looking forward to making new friends. I’m a very antisocial person so it’s hard to make new friends but I’m willing to step outside of my comfort zone.
 

 
How did you find and why did you choose Rustic Memories Photography by Heather as your photographer?
I’m best friends with heathers daughters, plus I loved her unique style with her photos.
 
What was your experience like? What did you love most about it?
My experience with heather was beautiful, we had so many opportunities and heather turned them into amazing photos. I loved getting all dressed up and expressing my inner cowgirl.

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​Tell us about your music. How did you get started and where are you with it now?
Music has always been a passion of mine ever since I was a little girl. I’ve always used music as an escape, it’s my safe place. I express myself through writing my own music.
 
What types of songs do you like to play? Which is your favorite and why?
I like slower tempo type of music, especially when I write my own. Of course, I love all types of music, but I relate more to slow songs.
 

What do you do in yearbook and what do you love most about it?
My job in yearbook is to design the spread. The spread is one of the most important parts because it sets the scene and format for the photos. I love being able to play around with the colors.
 
What do you love to photograph the most? How would you describe your photography style?
I love to capture candid photos. To me photos can say more than words, especially true emotions.
 
What have you learned about yourself being the manager for both the football and wrestling teams?
I’ve learned to be respectful and patient.  I’ve also learned that when you feel like there’s no other way, there’s always a solution. It’s not an easy job but I’ve created a family with the teammates and coach’s. 

Look for Sadie in issue 58 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!