OutreachNC magazine photographer Mollie Tobias held a “Write your Cinderella story” contest.

Write your Cinderella story winner Laquana Quick shares her answer to the question “What is the biggest obstacle that you have overcome in your life and what choices did you make that allowed you to succeed?”

My Cinderella story is that I am going to graduate with my class this June. My obstacle has always been school. Math, reading, and paying attention were my problems as an EC student. I never wanted to do my work because it was just too hard and frustrating.

Ninth grade was a disaster. I failed 5 out of 8 classes, including algebra twice. Then in my second year as a ninth grader my fairy godmother showed up as my EC teacher in my Algebra class. She gave me the choice to believe in myself and showed me the “tricks” to learn including highlighting and writing out steps. I began to change as these strategies became part of me. I became the student who did all of her work and participated in class. I felt beautiful! I could learn!

That year I passed my Algebra EOC with an 84. It took me seven hours to use all my “tricks” to complete it. I was so proud of myself and continued to learn more tricks so that I could graduate on time. I was determined to do it whatever it would take. I even went to Pickney Academy in the Summer to make up credits.

I am passing all of my classes (A’s and B’s) and have passed all of my EOC’s. I will be going to Sandhills next year. Finally, I now try to help others like me see that they can learn and have their own fairy tale. I cannot wait for graduation day! I will be the one with the biggest smile.

May 15, 2010 was a big day for many high school seniors at Union Pines because of the Junior Senior Prom being held that night. For one senior, Laquana Quick, the day was just a little more special. Laquana was the winner of the first annual “Write your Cinderella Story” contest put on by Mollie Tobias Photography. The contest was open to girls in the senior class at Union Pines High School this year. Participants were asked to write 250 words answering the question “What is the biggest obstacle that I have overcome in my life and what choices did I make that allowed me to succeed?” According to contest founder Mollie Tobias the goal of the contest was to reward young women for making positive choices and proactively seeking to improve themselves and help others. Two other girls, Sierra Bunnell and Maria Dudos, received honorable mentions in the contest and were awarded $25 gift cards to Walmart.

Laquana received a fun filled day that started with a make-over at Hair Biz at the Cottage where stylist Toni Saunders did makeup. Laquana’s hair and nails were done by a family member. After the hair and make-up were finished Laquana and her boyfriend of to years Matt went on a photo shoot around downtown Southern Pines before being treated to dinner at Rhett’s on Pennsylvania Avenue. After dinner it was off to enjoy the prom.

“One of my favorite parts of this contest”, said Tobias “was getting to meet a young lady with so much drive and such a great attitude. Laquana is involved in 8 groups in her high school and has managed to overcome her learning challenges in such a positive way. She really is a role model for other girls in her position.”

The event was also a chance for local businesses to come together and give back. Next year Tobias hopes to expand the contest to Pinecrest, North Moore, and O’Neal High Schools and also to be able to include other local sponsors so that additional prizes such as a dress and transportation can be provided as well. For more information on how to get involved in the project next year please contact Mollie Tobias at 910-988-8839 or molliet@gmail.com.