Most people like me never win much of anything. Yet we enter contests anyway on the off -chance that maybe, just maybe, we might actually get noticed, just once. I would like to thank Teen Ink’s staff for all of the hard work and dedication they’ve put into giving teens like me a place to shine.

This magazine has published my work a total of four times: one article and three photographs, one of which made the cover of the November issue. I would like Teen Ink to know what an impact they have had, and possibly even for my future. It is due to Teen Ink that I was able to hold the first cover photo of my life in my hands at the age of 16. As someone who hopes to attend photography school, you can imagine how pivotal an experience that was.

I appreciate all of your hard work putting together a magazine that real teens can relate to, in addition to giving us a sense of pride. It is your turn to feel that pride. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.