I fought the idea of having security for a very long time, because I really value normalcy. I really do. I like to be able to take a drive by myself.

I got to play Kim in Bye Bye Birdie, Sandy in Grease, and Maria in The Sound of Music. And it was so much fun for me, but the thing that I looked forward to the most was at the cast parties. After the shows they had karaoke machines set up and that's when I could sing country music.

When I was 8 years old, it mattered what my favorite singer said and wore and expressed opinions about. And if I have a chance to matter to the growth and hopes and wishes of little girls, that's something I can't take lightly. So I do factor them in when I'm thinking about what to wear, and what to say, and whether or not to go out to bars even thought I'm not twenty-one.

Growing up is scary because it happens without you knowing it.

People put you down because you're above them.

In this business you have to develop a thick skin, but I'm always going to feel everything. It's my nature.

Never believe anyone who tells you that you don't deserve what you want.