By Evan Williams 

At only fifteen years old, Kalynn Crain has a capacity for care beyond most anyone you’re likely to meet, not to mention the wisdom and can-do attitude to turn her compassion into thoughtful action.

“I overthink, but I do,” Kalynn joked in her interview, and get things done she most certainly does. A devoted athlete playing at the top of her game in basketball, volleyball, and softball — which she picked up just last year — Kalynn manages to find time for BETA Club, FFA, her friends, and her family.

She believes it is her support network that makes this all possible. Talking about her mom, sister, and step-dad, Kalynn’s eyes were ablaze with admiration. Exceptionally perceptive, it’s clear that Kalynn has learned from her loved ones how vital unconditional support can be for young people. She grows giddy with excitement talking about the day she’ll be able to pay back the support her family has given her, the day she’ll be able to extend a supporting hand to those in her community who look up to her.

When she graduates, Kalynn hopes to become a pediatrician. When we asked her what the greatest obstacle to that goal would be, she was completely unintimidated by the long and rigorous path to an MD. Instead, she told us, “I’m worried I won’t be able to understand what the kids need.”

What Kalynn may call overthinking is a deeply empathetic worldview in action. She wants to do well by those around her, and is careful to make sure she does so. She’s got your back, you can bank on it.