#22 McKenzie McElyea
Abilene Christian University
Business and Marketing
What high school activity, class, or teacher most impacted who you are today?
Destination Imagination, but more specifically, Mrs. Cheek! D.I. gave me a found family, and I couldn’t be more grateful to them for pushing me to always be my best.
What is your most cherished memory in high school?
My most cherished memory is not just one moment alone, but the culmination of all the activities I have participated in, and the very unique (and sometimes challenging) experience they have allowed me to have.
Share a time when you overcame a challenge and the lessons learned from it.
I learned in high school that everybody makes mistakes, but that there is always forgiveness and grace on the other side.
What advice would you give to under classmen about making the most out of their high school experience?
The people you are friends with may change around but continue to hold close to those who are consistent and trust that everything will work out exactly how it’s supposed to.
Who or what gives you inspiration?
While it may be cliche, my mom is most certainly my greatest inspiration. She has always been the most bright, positive beam of light in my life and that of others, too. I know that I speak for everyone that knows her when I say that she is the most amazing, most talented, most kind, and most loving woman I have ever had the privilege to know, and I am so grateful to be able to call myself her daughter. I love you so much, momma.
What accomplishment are you most proud of and why?
I’m most proud of myself for persevering through the challenges that can come with participating in as much as I do. I never once allowed myself to quit, and never fell behind, either. I stayed strong and for that, I am incredibly proud of myself.
What is something most people don’t know about you?
I have had the opportunity to travel all over, from many places in South America to several countries in Europe, and even getting to visit Rwanda next summer!
Is there anyone you would like to thank for helping you reach this achievement?
I wanted to thank all of my “second/chicken” moms who have always been there for me, just like my actual mom. You have all been such kind, amazing women, and I aspire to be like each and every one of you every day. Thank you for everything you have done for me and the rest of the Metallic Chickens.