Editor’s note: This is the last of eight Almond Blossom queen candidate profiles.

Emily Hodges loves Ripon because of its small town atmosphere, close knit community, conservative values and the acres of orchards that burst forth in white and pink blossoms each year.

Hodges, 18, is one of eight Ripon girls competing for the Almond Blossom crown for the upcoming festival Feb. 26-28 and filling the shoes of Miss Ripon for the remainder of the year.

“The almond blossoms are beautiful and it has become my family’s favorite time of year,” she said smiling.

She plans to attend Stanislaus State University in the fall to reach for a career in nursing because she loves science and has always felt passionate about helping others.  Emily said she hopes to go on and earn her master’s degree following her graduation with a bachelors of science degree.

Her character is self-described as hardworking, driven and sincere,  working over 12 hours a day currently focused on her goals from homework to chores and sports.

 “I sincerely love my family and friends and pride myself on being a loving and helpful person,” she said.

Emily is currently a member of the Ripon High cheer squad.  Her squad recently competed in the USA Cheer Regionals and placed second in their division, qualifying them to compete in the USA Cheer Nationals to be held  in March at Anaheim.

She is a member of the new Film Club at RHS.  In her junior year she competed on the Ripon High wrestling team, earning three medals and placing in each tournament she entered, saying she has also competed unofficially with the boys. Emily was part of the Ripon High Pride Tribe working to help students participate in school events and to help them elevate their Indian Pride.

She has been an honor student through elementary and her high school years. Emily currently enjoys a 3.25 GPA..

The almond queen candidate also sang in the RHS choir in her freshman, sophomore and junior years in high school.

 “If I am chosen to be Almond Blossom Queen, I would consider it a great honor to serve my community,” she said.