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her personality combined with her intelligence that makes her shine. Heather excels in academics, especially writing, but also spends a lot of time volunteering for various organizations, like mentoring elementary students after school at the Golden Gate Community Center. Through playing, teaching and building relationships with the kids, she has become a role model for higher education and reaching goals.
Heather will also be traveling to Israel as a volunteer youth ambassador. She volunteers with other Phoenix sister-cities, which expands her knowledge of foreign countries. "I’d rather be doing something that I feel is important than doing something because it will look better", she said, referring to college applications. Even among all her volunteer work, Heather has fun by performing in theatre and singing in the City Jazz Band, and most of all, enjoying laughing with her friends. Amanda Finton, Alyssa's English teacher who encouraged her to participate in the Oprah contest, was always sure of Alyssa's skills. She said, "Alyssa was the only finalist from Arizona selected for this honor. She is a talented writer, a dedicated athlete and a gifted artist. I am sure this is just one step in the many wonderful things she will accomplish in her life." |
