“As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself, and the other for helping others.”
– Audrey Hepburn.
Empowered by my experience as Miss Texarkana Twin Rivers Outstanding Teen in 2020, I had the incredible opportunity to volunteer for Tim Tebow’s Night to Shine, a prom for individuals with special needs. This life-changing experience deepened my understanding of advocacy and service. Helping others and putting smiles on kids’ faces made me realize how fortunate I am to have the chance to create positive change. The little boy in this photo is Trey, and I stayed by his side the entire night, dancing, singing, and meeting new people. Every moment reminded me of the power of empathy, leadership, and giving back. This experience has strengthened my resolve to pursue a career in law, where I can advocate for those who need it most, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights upheld.
As Miss Texarkana Twin Rivers Outstanding Teen in 2019, I had the privilege of being deeply involved in my community, fostering new connections and engaging in meaningful causes. One of the most impactful experiences was attending the Out of the Darkness Walk for suicide prevention and awareness on November 10, 2019. This event was especially significant to me, as I have personally lost loved ones to suicide. Meeting others who had faced similar struggles and triumphed over adversity reinforced my belief in the power of support and advocacy. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of raising awareness and standing alongside those in need, principles that align with my future aspirations in law, where I aim to advocate for individuals facing challenges and ensure they have access to the support and resources they deserve.
Volunteering at the Kiwanis Club’s annual pancake breakfast was a meaningful opportunity to engage with my community and contribute to a cause focused on service. My role involved handing out food and guiding guests to their seats, ensuring a welcoming and organized atmosphere. This experience reinforced my commitment to community service and strengthened my ability to work effectively in a team while interacting with people from all backgrounds. Volunteering alongside others dedicated to making a positive impact was inspiring and reminded me of the value of public service—values I am eager to bring into my future legal career.