Name: Rachel A. Jackson

School: Metro Academic & Classical High School

Talent: Spoken Word

How long have you been performing and what inspired you to start?
I have been performing for about nine years took it seriously about four years ago. Mental health has inspired me to start and continue. Whether I was going through something or my friends, poetry and music have always been there for me. I love talking about mental health and how it affects people everywhere.

How are you preparing for finals? Are you doing anything differently from your usual practices?
I practice every time I get. I make sure I pray so that I can be successful, which is something I usually don’t do, but it helps keep me focused. I listen to my videos over and over to see how and when to fluctuate my voice or change the speed or tone.

What will performing on the Fox stage mean to you?
It will show girls that look like me that you can do what you truly love no matter how others feel about you. This platform is more than just money to me, it’s being able to express myself unapologetically. I am so excited that I can share my piece with thousand of people and I hope that I touch at least one person on that night.

Is there someone you look up to and draw influence form for your talent?
My influence comes from God (El Shaddai), to be completely honest. God gives me the words and the talent that I have.

What has been the highlight of your performance career?
Performing at Wash U and a lady came to me after the show with tears pouring down her face. Se told me that out of all the pieces my piece touched her the most and that I should keep doing what I love to do because I will save lives through my poetry.

What do you hope to learn from your experience?

I hope to learn about all the behind scenes in the “show business”, it has always interested me.