Name: Allison Cassidy

So how long have you been at Monroe, and how do you like it?
I’ve been at Monroe since my freshman year (2005-06). I think it’s a good school. Most everyone was nice and friendly to me when I first started going here, and I thought that was cool because a lot of schools aren’t like that.

What did you think of Homecoming?
I thought the decorations were a lot better this year, and I liked the fact that it was in the gym. There was more room.

I hear you’re a Music Artist, What instrument do you play?
I’ve played piano for a long time. I took lessons for a few years, but I really wanted to write songs and they don’t teach you how to do that. So, I decided to quit taking lessons and just teach myself that aspect of piano. It’s better if you let creativity inspire you rather than certain techniques or rules, anyway.

What plans do you have for the future (musically)?
Well, I’ve had a few opportunities to record in various places- one here locally and one in Tennessee. Neither has worked out yet for different reasons. But there are a few doors still open that I’m thinking about, so we’ll see! I’d love to get a CD out eventually. Hopefully more than just one, but I figured I’d start out small. I think it’d also be cool to do shows in local venues. We’ll have to see though.

Do you plan on going to college? if so, where?
Well, I do want to go to college, but I have no clue where I would go (I think that’s bad…). I guess I better start looking.

What are your hobbies/interests?
Well, like I said, writing/ playing music, just writing, anything art-related. I love acting, dancing, painting, drawing. Anything that involves creativity, I love. I love going to my youth group, Oasis, at Stratford Heights. I love being around people. I found out that a lot of people think I’m quiet? If you ask any of my friends they will tell you- I’m not. I’m really a people person. And since I like all kinds of different things I can usually get along with just about anyone.

If there was one thing you wanted to tell people what would that be?
I would probably tell people that it’s really important to be yourself. We have plenty of people that can blend in with the crowd, but we really need people to stand out! Standing out doesn’t necessarily mean like, wear funky things or be loud and noisy or whatever. Standing out can be you just being yourself. You don’t have to think like everyone else. You don’t have to like the same things to be cool. You don’t have to wear or do the same things. Someone told me once that “Cool doesn’t try, it just is.” I thought that was a good saying.

Any advice for our freshman?
Hmm. Probably just to not get all caught up in drama. Drama is dumb. Except for the kind Mr. Hesson teaches. And not to care about what people say to or about you. It’s not important.

Who is/are your Heroes?
My pastor, Ray, is one of my heroes. He genuinely loves everyone. He hands out compliments freely and sincerely. He’s been through a lot and uses it to become stronger instead of letting it bring him down. My mom, because she is always so supportive and she trusts me. Some parents just don’t trust their kids. My dad, because he survived cancer, and always tells me to “Be somebody”. My Aunt, Linda, because she has cancer for the 4th time and is still fighting. She’s even happier than me! I think that’s amazing.
.

What are some of your favorites?
My favorite color is purple.
My favorite season is fall.
My favorite sport is football.
My favorite subject is Spanish.
My favorite movies are the Pirates of the Caribbean series.
My favorite holiday is Christmas.