Kirsten is a senior in the optional program at White Station High School. She’s a member of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis keystone club, her school’s drama club, a member of Youth in Government, as well as the track and field district team manager. She volunteers at her church and holds a part-time job, all while maintaining a 3.8 GPA. Kirsten has received multiple scholarship offers and would like to major in criminology with a minor in communications. Her career goal is to become a Strategic Intelligence Analyst with the FBI. As the winner, she will receive the $1,000 Irby Cooper Scholarship to the college of her choice.
When asked to share about her Club Experience, Kirsten said, “When I first started attending, I was a little apprehensive about fitting in and making friends. The majority of the kids that attend the club go to the same schools. I thought I would end up being the odd one out. However, I quickly learned that the staff was concerned about making me feel comfortable and relaxed in my new environment. I came in with my guard up thinking that I would be unable to connect with anyone there, but even the other kids made me feel right at home as soon as I entered the gym doors. The atmosphere was always so exciting and everyone around me seemed delighted to be there. I felt like I had been attending the club all my life. I will forever be grateful for the relationships I have made.”
Kirsten competed in the Youth of the Year State Competition in Nashville, Tn where she represented Memphis against Youth of the Year Representatives from across the state. The Youth of the Year award is the Premier Recognition Leadership award for Boys & Girls Clubs of America since 1947. The winner must embody the values of leadership, service, academic excellence, and healthy lifestyles. The candidates were also judged on essays, public speaking, and community recommendations. Kirsten was 1st runner-up in Tennessee and she was awarded the Chet Nichols Youth of the Year Award $2,000, the Boyd Foundation scholarship $2,000, the Aebischer Scholarship $1,200, and for winning the local competition she was awarded the Irby Cooper Scholarship $1,000.