I grew up in Jenks, Oklahoma, which I would describe as a tight-knit community in which the people truly identify with being a part of the town’s culture…especially when it comes to the high school sports! My mother ran a restaurant and catering company in my hometown, so much of my time was spent in her kitchen learning how to cook (and wash dishes!), and to this day cooking is a passion of mine—I’m always watching Food Network or scrolling through recipe videos online!
Growing up, I was mostly influenced by music. I was always involved in instrumental and vocal music in school, competing in singing competitions, taking part in school musicals, and participating in show choir (think “Glee”); I once even got to sing in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade!
One of the greatest lessons I learned from my years of studying music is the discipline of competing with yourself to always be better than you were the day before. A growth mindset is key because there will likely always be someone “better” than you, but that doesn’t mean you should give up or that you don’t have a unique talent to offer.