Ripon Almond Blossom Queen candidate Kylie Varelas, 16, wants to have a career as a pediatrician but first the Ripon High Junior is focusing on becoming the next Miss Almond Blossom Queen

She is one of the eight young women running for the Almond Blossom crown. The candidates will present  speeches  Thursday night at the annual kick-off dinner at Spring Creek Country Club where they will be formally introduced to the community.

Whoever is crowned next month will reign over the festival Feb. 26-28 and then serve the rest of the year as Miss Ripon.

Kylie is planning to attend Arizona State University on a softball scholarship at the end of her senior year.  

“They have great academics, an amazing sports program and a beautiful campus,” she said of Arizona State.

“My dream job is being a pediatrician because I’ve always had a special connection with children and a need to give back to the world. I’ve been told I am determined, loyal and bubbly — the three best words to describe my character,” she added. 

Friends have said Kylie is always smiling and very determined in everything she undertakes in and out of school.

“Seeing other people genuinely happy is the greatest feeling in the world,” she added.

“Loyal is another good word to describe me,” she added. “I am always there for everyone and anyone who needs me and I will always remain loyal to my family, friends and the community.”

Clean Campus Club is just one of her pursuits,. Others include FHA, Hero, Peer Helping, Photography Club, Outdoors Club and Student Senate. In her spare time she volunteers through her church and the Ripon Recycling Center. 

Playing softball is her favorite off campus activity with memories back as far as she can remember.  

“Softball has made me grow physically and mentally stronger. I couldn’t imagine living without it,” she said.

Kylie said running for Miss Almond Blossom has been “an amazing experience” that is allowing her to grow as an individual and allowing her to meet new people. She added that she feels she is the best candidate for Miss Ripon because Ripon needs someone who will be committed to attend all the events and represent the community in a very positive way.

“I will learn very many important life skills that will help me with my future.  I will take a lot from this experience and treasure it forever,” she said.

To contact Glenn Kahl, email gkahl@mantecabulletin.com.