9 Q’s with Elk City’s Gabby Box — Presented by First National Bank & Trust – Elk City

VYPE: What grade are you in and what sports and activities are you involved in?

Gabby: I am a senior at Elk City. I have been a varsity cheerleader all four years of high school. I am the president of Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, as well as being a member for three years. 

VYPE: Who are some people in your life that have made a big impact on you?

Gabby: My mom has not only been my biggest influence but also my biggest supporter in any and everything I do. She has taught me to stay strong, be kind to others, push myself to be the best I can be and most importantly to show up for the people I love. She will forever be the person who has left the most impact in my life.

VYPE: Is there a teacher or teachers that have been influential in your life? Why?

Gabby: Mrs. Bonner has always been the teacher that I feel comfortable to go to if I ever need advice. She has always been there to listen and always there to make my feelings feel valid. I am thankful to have her as one of my teachers. 

VYPE: What does it mean to you to be able to represent your school?

Gabby: Being able to represent my school is extremely important to me. Whether I am in school or not I think it’s important to show great respect for yourself and others everywhere you go. 

VYPE: What has been your favorite moment throughout your high school career so far?

Gabby: Making state for Game Day my freshman year! We put so much work into this routine and everyone was always putting their 100%. Constantly practicing and motivating each other everyday. The moment we found out we qualified for state it felt like all the hard work we did was well paid off.

VYPE: What does it take to balance your school work and the activities you are involved in?

Gabby: Planning and determination for me balancing a job, social life, sport and schooling I have learned it’s important to have each day set and organized. Keeping everything planned so I am not overwhelming myself but also getting everything I need done.

VYPE: What is your favorite quote or piece of advice that someone has given you?

Gabby: My favorite piece of advice I was given was “Progress, not perfection”. This has helped me especially because of how much of a perfectionist I can be when it comes to my performances. I always strive for perfection in every practice, performance or competition. 

VYPE: What professional athlete do you look up to? 

Gabby: That would be Simone Biles. It’s inspiring to see such a successful athlete overcoming trials that I have also dealt with. 

VYPE: You can pick any place for a summer vacation, where do you go and who do you take with you? 

Gabby:I would love to visit Paris during fashion week. My person I would take with me is my granny, she is the reason I fell in love with fashion and clothing. As a young kid my granny and I  would watch Paris fashion week on the television together and I think it would mean so much to take her with me.