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.”
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