Next month when she ventures to Chicago to compete in “The Voice” auditions, Shawnee McDonnell will summons the confidence that sets her apart from most of her peers.The Wright City junior isn’t afraid to stand in front of a crowd and share her opinion or talents. Instead, she is eager to become involved in as many leadership roles as possible.McDonnell is president of her class and also a member of the Speech and Drama Club, Student Council, National Honor Society, Spanish Club and Art Club. She plans on pursuing additional offices next year as a senior.Not all of her roles are obvious. This past fall she decided to don the Wildcat costume and serve as the school’s mascot.McDonnell moved to Wright City during third grade after living in St. Charles and attending the Francis Howell School District. She resides with her mother, grandparents and younger brother.Having already been impressed with a visit to Missouri State University, McDonnell has plans to tour Truman State University later this month. She aspires to study psychology to become a school counselorQ: What made you want to become the school’s mascot?“I’m very happy all the time and a lot of school spirit, but I’m not athletic and cheerleading really isn’t my thing. So, when they needed a mascot I thought I would give it a try.”Q: What do you enjoy about attending Wright City High School?“In other schools the athletes or cheerleaders are the popular ones, but that’s not necessarily the case here. People don’t make fun of the special needs kids, and I don’t really see much bullying. I’m really proud of my class, and I think it’s one of the best.”Q: What is your favorite class?“I like writing and Introduction to Business because we get to do a lot of presentations.”Q: How would you describe your personality?“I always try to keep an open mind. I like writing and singing and learning about Spanish and other cultures.”Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?“I would travel to Ireland, because I would to learn about my heritage.”Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?“I have a quote that I live by, ‘Don’t let the world around you harden your heart.’ ”Q: Who is your favorite teacher?“Mr. (Rick) Halteman. He teaches my pre-calculus class, and nobody has ever pushed me so hard.”Q: Who has had the greatest influence on your life?“My grandma, because she always watched me growing up with my mom working. She would get us ready in the morning and took care of us.”Favorite Food: “Pasta.”Favorite Restaurant: “Olive Garden.”Favorite TV Show: “Revolution.”Favorite Movie: “Son-in-Law.”Favorite Song: “My Kind of Love by Emily Sandee.”Favorite Musician: “Demi Lovato.”Shawnee McDonnell