Cassandra Shah from JP Stevens
High School in New Jersey, seen here
wearing a dress by Terani, jewelry from
Jewel Mac, and shoes by Sizzle, is one
of the seven finalists in the 2009 Prom
Guide Teen Search modeling and
scholarship competition. She entered
this year because a close friend was
involved in last years competition
and she wanted to participate in all
the hype. She is also a talented singer
and would love to pursue a career
in music if possible. To cover herself
though, she will be going to college
to work towards a degree in business.
Her companion is Jahrell Thompson,
a senior at Teaneck Senior High School
in New Jersey and fellow finalist, who
is wearing a tuxedo by Fumagalli. Their
hair was done by Danielle Irene with
make-up done by Vicki Starr.
When asked if she considers herself
a leader or a follower, Cassandra
replies that she feels everyone has
a little of each inside them. She does
feel she has leadership abilities but
doesnt downplay her need to learn
from others. Im always getting myself
into situations where I take on more
than I can handle and I have to ask
for help, she says, but thats okay,
thats how we grow. This statement
is indicative of this young ladys
personality. When asked about her
singing she says, Music has the ability
to heal the heart and I want to use
that quality to reach out to people.
The best advice that Cassandra can
offer for teens striving to be successful is,
Never settle for second best. If youre
not where you want to be mentally,
physically, spiritually or academically,
keep trying until you get there. The
saying that has gotten her through
high school is, God never gives you
more than you can handle.
Jahrell couldnt agree more. When
asked what advice he would give to
other teenagers striving for success,
Jahrell responded with the following
statement: Theres no disgrace in
falling down. The disgrace comes
when you dont get up and try again.
He also feels that self image is the
biggest issue for teenagers today and
thinks that too many kids are caught
up in what they look like or where
they stand in the difficult social class
distinction that is such a large part of
high school life. Jahrell, who entered
the Prom Guide Teen Search because
he wanted to represent his high
school, plans to attend college when
he graduates and pursue a career as
a pediatrician.
