Potential Magazine Fall 2016 | Page 8

what i know now brittany hamilton age: 24 hometown: Montgomery, Alabama career: Brittany works as an Elections Analyst in the Alabama Secretary of State’s office. In addition to doing an extensive amount of writing and research for resolutions and reports, Brittany also created the Elections Cat project, which helps elementary school students learn about the elections and voting process. She also assists Spanish-speaking callers and visitors. “I love the fact that my passion for writing can be used to help those who come to our office for assistance. I think it’s really important for people to use their abilities to help and serve others,” she says. parental influence: Brittany’s father works for the State of Alabama, and her mother is a stay-at-home-mom. “My mother homeschooled my sisters and me from the very beginning,” she says, and says her parents taught her that putting God first and doing her best are the keys to success. “With God, all things are possible, and striving for the best while looking to the Lord for guidance will bring the greatest in life.” brittany hamilton capitol career college: Brittany attended Faulkner University, where she earned a BA in English with a minor in Spanish. “I was really surprised that college wasn’t nearly as terrifying or difficult as I thought it would be. As long as you pay attention in class, take good notes and study hard, maintaining good grades is easy,” she says. secret to success: “I think passion and practicality should go hand in hand when it comes to choosing a major. Students should choose their fields of study wisely, but they should also determine whether or not they’re truly passionate about the subject,” she advises. eye opener: “I was really surprised that working a full-time job feels a lot like going to school. You’re constantly learning new skills and concepts, projects and presentations have crucial deadlines, and employees are graded annually on their performance,” Brittany says. “The only difference is that you’re drawing a paycheck, which feels great!” can’t live without future focus: Brittany has some creative ambitions for her future. “I’ll continue to follow God’s plan for my life, and I’m hoping to one day write and publish my own book series.” 1. My Bible 2. My Notebook 3. Fresh Ink Pen advice for teens: Brittany feels that the most important thing for teens to remember is to use free time wisely. “You’ll have plenty of opportunities to hang out with friends and catch up on your favorite television series some other time, but your academics should come first. downtime advice for parents: “Keep your children encouraged, and Brittany has a long list of hobbies, including sewing, knitting, crocheting (and crafting in general!), drawing, playing the piano, writing fiction, reading, and dancing! “I took dance for nearly 10 years in high school and college and studied ballet, tap, jazz, praise, and contemporary.” 8 | Fall 2016 offer to help them with their studies,” Brittany says, but also “let them know that you’re proud of them and that you’ll always be there to assist them.” rookie mistake: “It’s definitely important to limit your distractions and put work before leisure,” she advises. “Avoiding procrastination is easier said than done, but it isn’t impossible!” www.potentialmagazine.com