I loved performing every week, but all of the activities and amazing people we met when we were not filming stick out to me the most.

There's so much good you can do with your voice - always remember that.

I am extremely grateful for my 'American Idol' experience, and I enjoyed every bit of it.

Even in the sad songs, I want people to know that it won't always be like that.

I focused more on sharing my gift and performing than worrying about it being a competition.

My songs always tend to have a good element to the story. That is who I am - an optimistic person.

I think my songwriting has developed over the years. As I get older, I have become less afraid to share real experiences.