I decided to study special education and fell in love with working with individuals with autism. That's what I planned to do with my life.

If my career detour from special education to singing has done one thing, it has afforded me the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others.

But I was going to be a teacher my entire life, so I wasn't counting on money to much.

I thought about that the other day after I went to the grocery store and had to sign fifteen autographs before leaving. On one hand, it's just so flattering. On the other hand, sometimes it would be nice to get the bread and leave, you know?

In my ideal world, no child would suffer. Charitable instincts would prevail. There would be global acceptance of all different types of people.

I know that I've got big ears and a big forehead and that my hair sticks up, but I'm happy with myself. I'm not necessarily trying to win a beauty pageant here.

I know this is going to sound cheesy and like I'm trying to be Miss America, but the most important responsibility a celebrity has is to set an example and be a role model.