Lauren Hughes is a Fultondale High School senior that has been accepted in the Alabama Ambassadors of Music program and will be traveling to Europe this summer. She is the only north Jefferson County student to be accepted into the program this year. She is trying to raise $3,000 to pay for the trip, email ginhughes@yahoo.com.

How were you selected for the program?

I was recommended by [former FHS principal] Donna Williamon. Candidates go through a series of auditions and they take the best of the best seniors.

What got you interested in music?

Both my parents are music educators, so it’s just always been a part of my life.  I want to go to Sanford and get a music education degree. I’ve been singing all my life, and this is my 10th year playing the piano.

What do you like about music?

My favorite thing is that anybody can express themselves through music. It makes a common bond between everyone.

Do you have any interests outside of music?

I love math. It has a lot in common with music; with both of them, the answer’s just… there. You don’t have to search for it. I also love wrestling. My Dad is a wrestling coach at Fultondale High School. Four years ago, one of his wrestlers moved in with us and he’s become like a brother to me. I also dance with the color guard and winter guard, and I’m also active in my church youth group.

Are you excited about going to Europe?

I’m so excited. It’s a God-given opportunity. I’ll be going to seven different countries: England, France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, and Germany.