Hi, My name is Amanda and I am in ninth grade at Santa Barbara Middle School.

All through my life, I have enjoyed telling stories and listening to stories of others. One of the reasons why I decided to join Teen Press was inspired by this years theme The Power of Story… What’s your verse? I believe that everyone and everything has its own story, and it is our job to listen. If I could interview anyone in the world, I would have to go with John Lennon. The stories that he told through his music are as inspiring as they are powerful. I would also love to listen to the story of Emmanuel, from Emmanuel’s Gift.

Almost more than anything else, I love adventures. I love any activity that takes place outside such as biking, camping, hiking, kayaking, running, going to the beach, and surfing. One of my passions is playing soccer, but I like all sports. Ever since I was little, I have enjoyed doing art. I play the drums and the cello. I also really enjoy community service and helping others.

A fact about me is that I love to laugh. I believe that it is easier to live life if you are happy.

Question: If you could time travel, where would you go and why?