Grade: 12
Age: 17
Extra-curricular: Hayden Jackson's Community Choir, former varsity cheerleader
Claim to fame/honors: I've been on the honor roll all of my high school career. I've received the President's Gold Award for the previous three years. I've been on cheerleading competition squads, choreographed routines and excelled in dance and received awards.
Words you live by: "Anything or everything you do in life. The success depends on your attitude and dedication."
Toughest challenge: Being positive in a negative environment
Biggest influence: Former President Barack Obama because he overcame adversity
School-day rituals: Saying my prayers every morning
What's on your bedroom walls: A wall phrase that says "Be your own kind of beautiful," my cheer bow collection, a memory of my great-grandma, my art work and a Dallas Cowboys cheerleader calendar
When I'm bored I like to … Bother my sister Markaé
Favorite movie: The Lion King
Person who would play you in a movie: Gabrielle Union because she plays a successful news reporter in Being Mary Jane
Favorite TV show: Star
Favorite musical artist: John Legend
Favorite book: "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings" by Maya Angelou
Favorite home-cooked meal: Pork chops, sweet potatoes and macaroni and cheese
Favorite restaurant: Red Lobster
Whose mind would you like to read: My niece that I am very close to, Niylah
Place where you'd love to travel: The Dominican Republic
Talent you'd like to have: Playing the piano
Favorite school subject: English
Favorite athlete: JT Barrett, Ohio State
Favorite team: A tie between Ohio State and the Dallas Cowboys
Something in the world I'd like to change: Racism and hatred
Favorite high school moment: My sophomore year of varsity cheerleading
Favorite junk food: Ice cream
Best thing about high school: Being able to talk to Mrs. Mertens and Mr. Eckstein about everything and having their support
About the Author