Teen Hall of Fame: Emily Matteson, Senior, Modesto High School

Emily Matteson
Senior, Modesto High School

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When Emily moved from Chicago to Modesto six years ago, a lot of changes were made in her life. One thing she did not change was her love for the cello.

Emily, 17, has been playing cello for eight years. She has played in many groups, from school clubs to state honor orchestras. This is her sixth year in the Modesto Symphony Youth Orchestra, and her fourth in the higher level symphony orchestra. She is the principal cellist in both MSYO and MJC's orchestra. She is also involved in Modesto High School's quartet, an after-school club that meets on a weekly basis.

Emily also participates in cello choirs directed by her private teacher, Jana Hunn. The choirs play both classical and modern music.

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Teen Hall of Fame nomination form

Emily has participated twice in the California Orchestra Directors Association honor orchestra, a statewide honor orchestra.

Last year, Emily was awarded a special scholarship to a California State University, Stanislaus, summer music camp. Her involvement in music has granted her the opportunities to travel the world, touring both Italy and China with the Modesto High School Orchestra and MSYO.

Emily also plays her cello at her church, Modesto Church of the Brethren, where her parents are the pastors. The church has always been a support system for her. She is actively involved in the youth group, helping organize events such as an annual national youth conference in Colorado and fund raising. The youth group also helps feed the homeless and plant trees around Modesto. Emily is also involved in a mentor/mentee program, in which she is paired with an adult in the church in order to form a close friendship by doing projects together.

Emily maintains a 4.72 GPA in the IB program at Modesto High and is involved in Panthers Against Landmines, a club dedicated to raising money to remove landmines in foreign countries.

Emily had always wanted to go on a trip to aid impoverished nations. Last summer, Emily lived her dream, and went on a 10-day learning tour of El Salvador organized by the New Community Project.

In El Salvador, Emily toured historic sights related to the Assassination of Archbishop Oscar Romero. She also spent a week in a small community, helping build foundations for homes. Throughout the week, she had the opportunity to talk with the inhabitants about the injustice they faced, particularly the plight of the women coffee pickers.

All of these experiences have given Emily a unique outlook on life, and have shaped her career goals. She hopes to attend Lewis and Clark University, and major in International Relations.

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PARENTS: Russ and Erin Matteson

SIBLING: Hannah, 14

HOBBIES: Cello, cooking, reading when I have the time, being with my friends.

BIGGEST INFLUENCE: Her family, and her experience in El Salvador

LAST BOOK READ FOR PLEASURE: "Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert

FAVORITE TV SHOW: "House"

FAVORITE MOVIE: "The Lion King"

BIGGEST FEAR: That I'll forget about what I learned in El Salvador and that I'll forget how my actions impact others.

WHAT SHE'D TELL THE PRESIDENT: I don't envy your job, and I respect you for trying to fix things in America.

ADVICE FOR KIDS: Live in the present, enjoy your time, and have fun!

ADVICE FOR ADULTS: Listen to kids, you might just learn something.

WHERE SHE SEES HERSELF IN 10 YEARS: Hopefully in a job that allows me to travel.

� PETER HODSON/TEENS IN THE NEWSROOM

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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.