Teen Hall of Fame; Amanda Newsum

In a life rich in music, drama and dance performance, Amanda Newsum maintains a commitment to excel academically. She balances the arts and her schoolwork in a way that she describes as "strengthening, as well as fulfilling."

A senior at Beyer High School, Amanda has participated in drama club as a performer and secretary. She has appeared in musicals with Modesto Performing Arts and even teaches at 5678 Dance Studio.

This year is her 12th year at the studio, and for someone who has spent well over half her life in dance, it is no surprise how big a role it plays in her day-to-day life.

"Dancing and performing in front of people is a great way to both build confidence and strengthen yourself, physically and emotionally," Amanda said. She enjoys the ability to put herself "out there" and connect with those involved.

Passing down her love of dance to the children she teaches is especially gratifying, knowing she is "sharing the same experience with them."

"Performing live for people is definitely a great feeling," Amanda said, "whether I am dancing or acting, it is always nice to sort of release myself in a way that can possibly inspire those watching."

Whether she is performing in front of an audience of the public or her classmates and teachers, Amanda always puts her best foot forward to instill a sense of inspiration.

With a 3.86 GPA and a solid work ethic, she is on a path to reach her college-bound goals in genetic research and to cement her role as a dependable, giving person.

• FAMILY: Parents, Lorrie and Glenn; brother, Ben, 15

• HOBBIES: Dancing, watch older movies, raising my baby goat

• BIGGEST INFLUENCE: My mother

• LAST BOOK READ FOR PLEASURE: "The Plague," by Albert Camus

• FAVORITE TV SHOWS: "SpongeBob SquarePants," "Curb Your Enthusiasm"

• FAVORITE MOVIE: "Catch Me if You Can"

• FAVORITE MUSIC: Basically, anything I am able to dance to.

• BIGGEST FEAR: Not being able to fulfill my goals and aspirations.

• WHAT I'D TELL PRESIDENT: I would tell him not worry about what people who disapprove think or say, for there is always going to be opposition. He should just do what he feels is best.

• ADVICE FOR KIDS: To enjoy their youth, and not attempt to grow up too fast.

• ADVICE FOR ADULTS: They should make a greater attempt to enjoy the small things in life, as well as the greater things, because they still have a while to do so.

• WHERE I'LL BE IN 10 YEARS: Graduated from college with a master's, researching genetics and living a visibly happy life.

The Teen Hall of Fame honoree receives a $100 check from E.&J. Gallo Winery, movie tickets from Dr. Randy Winter with the Modesto Arts Medical Group, a gift card from Yogurt Mill and bowling passes from Yosemite Lanes.