While everyone I work with may not share my beliefs, I have been surrounded by nothing but support.

I like to talk. I'm a terrible dancer. I love my hometown. I have freckles and oversized ears. I'm a geeks. I have tried not to hide who I am or what matters to me.

My mother taught me that we all have the power to achieve our dreams. What I lacked was the courage.

I could have a degree in music and come on the show, and Simon could still say 'You stink'.

I think there is a predisposition among Christians that Hollywood is anti-Jesus or anti-Christianity. I was warned I'd have to fight to maintain the freedom to express my beliefs. It's an unfair stereotype, and so far that's been the farthest from the truth. While everyone I work with may not share my beliefs, I have been surrounded by nothing but support.

Working with children with autism has provided me with an opportunity to see the world in a different way. I see them strive to overcome obstacles and persevere, and learn to persevere myself. They are my inspiration.

Because I'm from North Carolina, you think I'm the Andy Griffith show, or something?