WHIZ KID: Kristen Kreiner, Actress, Girl Scout, Peer Minister

Each week, we're honoring an exceptional young person in Perry Hall.

Perry Hall Patch Whiz Kid of the Week: Kristen Kreiner

• Age: 16
• School/Church: The Catholic High School of Baltimore,
• Accomplishments: Kristen first got stung by the acting bug in second grade, when she performed in the Wizard of Oz at Chesapeake High School. Now a junior at the Catholic High School of Baltimore, she has participated in more than a dozen stage performances. Most recently, she starred as Laurey Williams in the musical Oklahoma! at Archbishop Curley High School. She has also been active in The Children's Playhouse of Maryland, Cockpit in Court Summer Theatre and other local theaters. Kristen is also a longtime member of Girl Scout Troop 1667, based in St. Joseph Parish. Since she was 14, she has worked in the church's peer ministry, leading small groups and helping to prepare children for confirmation.
• Key to Success: "You have to stay focused on your dreams," Kristen said. "Depend on God for everything. It's not all about you." Music is a major source of inspiration, she said: "It definitely helps me through my day. I listen to Christian rock, musicals, everything." To other aspiring actors and actresses, she suggests, "If it's something you want to pursue, go after it."