Potential Magazine Fall 2015 - Alabama Edition | Page 40

teen spotlight photography by Lauren Childs stats 16, Junior at Slocomb High School in Slocomb notable Duke Tip Talent Program; HOBY State Leadership Seminar; Warren Beck Leadership Program; Senior B.A.S.I.C; Varsity Cheerleader quotable “My youth pastor constantly reminds us to ‘be bold,’ which is sort of a motto that our whole youth group acquired. We always joke about crazy things we could do that would be considered bold, but it ultimately means to stay rooted in what you believe in and spread those ideas with no regret,” said Anna. how it began When Anna Layne West has a goal, she works hard to achieve it. Since kindergarten, Anna has managed to successfully maintain the A Honor Roll. She already has a certification in personal finance, was recommended for Congress of the 2015 Future Medical Leaders for the State of Alabama and was awarded the Certificate of Outstanding Achievement at the Enterprise State Community College English Tournament. At Slocomb High School, Anna also holds several leadership positions including being the Vice President of Junior Beta, a member of the SGA and an Ambassador, to name a few. When asked about her greatest source of inspiration, Anna credited reading. She explained that reading “allows me to gather bits of wisdom” from the various adventures and the characters’ experiences. what’s next anna west After graduation, Anna is leaning towards a career in Anesthesiology. Slocomb, AL PG (parental guidance) rating “My parents continuously push me to make my own decisions. They allow me to see a world full of opportunities, and show me that will stand by me on whatever road I take,” she said. parents’ perspective Paul David and Caylon West say their daughter is self-driven, focused and hardworking. With their guidance, they believe Anna has learned to pursue her dreams and that if she believes in herself, she can achieve whatever she sets her mind to do. parent-to-parent Anna’s mother Caylon West was influenced by her parents to be a humanitarian and to be diligent in all that she does. She also believes encouragement is one of the greatest tools to help teens reach their potential. “Helping someone gain self-confidence is the best way to make anyone feel successful,” said Caylon. “Spend time with your children and inquire about their day. Never downgrade them. Let them know what you expect from them, and they never have to wonder. Let them know they are loved, and always praise them whenever possible.” 40 www.potentialmagazine.com