What was your experience like participating in Spotlight from auditions to master classes?
My experience was wonderful. I felt like I was being nurtured from the minute I arrived to do the preliminary auditions all the way to the performance at the Dorothy Chandler. The master class was such an amazing experience because it allows you, with the help of an expert, to examine all of your performing habits. Your private teacher sees you when you are, for all intensive purposes, relaxed; however, the professional giving the master class sees you in an entirely different situation, when you are performing. The master classes and the judges? comments are invaluable because they allow the performers to receive feedback on what they do in an audition or performance setting as opposed to what they do in a practice room or their teacher's studio.

What was it like performing on the stage of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion?
In one word it was incredible. I will never forget it for as long as I live. I cannot even put into words how moved I was by the entire experience. It reenergized my love for singing and music.

What is your favorite thing about performing or studying your art form?
My favorite thing would have to be meeting amazing individuals who love music as much as I do. I have met so many wonderful people and have made some great friends. It is a special and remarkable thing when you can bond with another person over a shared love of an art form. It is a great foundation to build any relationship. Plus I have met so many accomplished artists and inspiring performers that have become my role models and not just in an artistic sense.

Who is your favorite singer/dancer/performer/composer, etc. and why?
This question is so difficult there are so many singers that I love and admire. Maria Callas used to be my favorite and I think that she is probably still up there. I love how expressive her voice is. She had such a remarkable way of conveying emotion. I also love Joan Sutherland because her sing was just so beautiful and precise. And of course Marilyn Horne because she mastered every register and could tackle any piece. You know I love listening to people sing so much that it is very difficult for me to narrow the field down. I think that for every type of rep there is at least three singers who are geniuses at it.

Who has been your biggest fan and has given you the most support?
My mother is my biggest fan. She is my teammate. She was the one that drove me to all of my lessons and competitions. When college auditions came around we travelled the world together. We have done it all together and I don't know where I would be without her. I love her more than anything.

What other skills or talents do you have that other people may not know about you?
I am pretty good at baking cookies and apple pies. I can also lick my own elbow, although I do not know if that qualifies as a talent. I enjoy keeping up with current events, although I am not quite sure that is a talent either.

Are there any setbacks that you have overcome which have challenged you to be a better artist?
My family is very supportive, I come from a great community, and I have a great teacher. I mean every artist has days when they doubt themselves but I can't think of one singular make of brake moment. I am very blessed.

What qualities do you believe are your biggest strengths?
I think that I am inquisitive and I think that is a strength especially in a medium that is as subjective as art. I am also rather determined to make my dream come true, although I am sure my mother would beg to differ sometimes.

What are your dreams/goals in life?
I want to travel the world singing. I want to experience as many places as possible and do it all through music. I feel that music is the world?s greatest asset for communication and that is why I want to use music to communicate with people from around the world and from all different walks of life.

What are your plans after high school?
I am going to attend Juilliard in the fall. I am very excited.