Taylor Gilyard, 8th, would rather be a tribute in The Hunger Games than live without her family and friends. Being a shy, quiet girl, Taylor depends on them to help an support her.

“I only tried out for the dance team because my dad encouraged me to do it,” Taylor said.

Taylor’s friends share the same love and have helped her get to the ends of the universe and back.

“My friends are important because whenever I have a problem, I always go to them,” Taylor said.

To her best friends, Citlaly Ceniceros and Michelle Atkins, 8th, Taylor is just as important.

“Taylor has influenced me a lot,” Citlaly said. “She helps me with my anger and to be more kind to people.”

Citlaly and Michelle know Taylor is a great person and are glad to have her as a friend.

“Since I met Taylor, she has always been there for me and has never let me down,” Michelle said. “No matter what happens, I know she will always be by my side.”

Taylor knows her family and friends have shaped who she is and have made her unique.

“I need them because if I don’t have them, I feel lost and alone,” Taylor said.

Written by America Cruz