Most people, like me, never win much of anything. Yet we enter contests and submissions anyway on the off chance that maybe, just maybe, we might actually do it, just once. I would like to thank Teen Ink Magazine and the Teen Ink staff for all of the hard work and dedication they've put in to giving teens like me a place to shine.

This magazine has published my work a total of four times. One article[albeit a small one] three or so years ago, and three photographs this year, one of which made the cover of the November 2007 issue. I would like Teen Ink to know what an impact they have made for me and possibly, my future.

I would also like to extend my gratitude towards a certain staff member who took the time out of her day two separate times to make sure I got my copy of the magazine. Moving around a lot, my address had changed from the one I had put on my photo submissions, causing two of my congratulations packets to get lost in the mail. It is due to this person that I was able to hold the first cover photo of my life in my hands at the age of sixteen. As someone who hopes to attend photography school, you can imagine how pivotal of an experience that was.

Again, TeenI nk staffers, I appreciate the wonderful opportunities you've given me and for all of your hard work putting together a magazine that real teens can really relate to, in addition to giving us a sense of pride. It is your turn to feel that pride, TeenI nk. I thank you from the bottom of my heart.