By Steve Dallape 

Addison Maupin is just finishing elementary school, on her way to Junior High. But, she already has a lifetime worth of good advice to dispense. When asked what she would tell her younger self, she replied, “Don’t lie, don’t steal, don’t cheat. Choose who your friends are in life. Don’t let people control you, don’t let people use you.”

Too bad she can’t actually go back in time and help her younger self out with these wise words. But, maybe they can be of use to her 1-year-old brother. Of being a big sister, she says, “It’s interesting, I will say that.” She’s still getting used to the responsibility that having five step-siblings has not prepared her for.

Addison is a creative, entrepreneurial-minded girl, who designs and makes bracelets in her spare time, and wants to start a business with her stepmother. She has a small group of close friends her age, but says that she looks forward to meeting new people outside her circle, an important part of creating a successful business.

Addison’s favorite subject is Science, but that has not always been true. She says that her Science teacher, Mrs. Amanda Hise, makes the subject fun. Addison likes the way Mrs. Hise is always willing to help, no matter what. “She’s just the kind of teacher you’d want in every classroom,” she remarked.

Addison looks to her family for support and guidance, particularly her grandmother. She admires how even-tempered her grandmother is, and how she is kind to everyone. Her family has also taught Addison other valuable life lessons, such as how to deal with tough situations by looking on the bright side. For example, she was upset when her grandparents’ dog died, yet she was also glad that the dog was no longer suffering. Techniques such as this will no doubt serve her well as she navigates the ups and downs of life.