Senior Amelia Phommachanh has her sights set on becoming a model. While the journey won’t be an easy one, her intentions are clear: to inspire others to follow their dreams like she does.

She will compete in a Miss Kansas Outstanding Teen pageant on March 20.

“Miss Kansas Outstanding Teen (is) for teenage girls in high school from ages 13-18 to basically just showcase their talents,” Phommachanh said. “I’m super excited to just put my name out there and try and win a title for my state.”

For most, achieving one’s dream is difficult. Some dreams seem tangible, and yet others are considered unrealistic.

You want to play video games full-time? That will never work out. 

You want to start your own business? You’ll probably never even get off the ground. 

You want to be a model? Too much competition.

Such comments are not uncommon.

“I dealt with bullying in middle school, I’ve dealt with depression, suicide, every mental (illness),” Phommachanh said.

Senior Jimmy Konekeo, who competes for the Panthers’ eSports team, added: “I’ll try to continue doing (eSports) if I don’t get discouraged along the way.”

No matter one’s dreams, goals, even career choices, there are obstacles to overcome. 

“A lot of what I want to do requires going to very elite schools, so like Ivy League (schools) or going abroad and whatnot,” said sophomore Gillian Noffert, who wants to be a professor.

The goal is reaching those dreams, regardless of how tough it is.

“I believe that when you plug your light into the world, it’s what makes the light in the world shine, I need to be able to show people that,” Phommachanh said.

“I’m going to go through all these hard times, but I’m going to wear them as a badge to let these kids know that you can also do it.”