For Pahrump Valley High School senior Addie Allen, the high school experience has been anything but ordinary. It has been a journey of growth, creativity and self-discovery—one that has shaped not only who she is today, but who she hopes to become in the years ahead.
Looking back, Addie reflects on moments of both challenge and triumph that helped define her path. Stepping away from acting for a time and later returning stronger than before stands out as one of the most meaningful turning points in her high school career. That experience, combined with her involvement in choir, gave her a sense of stability during difficult days and helped her push through challenges. Over time, spaces like the culinary classroom also became unexpected sources of comfort and belonging.
“I never knew I needed it until now,” she shared, describing how culinary evolved into a safe and supportive environment.
The performing arts have played a central role in Addie’s journey. Through theater, she not only developed her skills as a performer but also discovered a clear direction for her future. Acting is no longer just an interest—it’s a passion she hopes to carry forward as a career path. At the same time, she has navigated personal challenges, including dyslexia, which she has worked hard to advocate for, raising awareness and using her voice to support others facing similar obstacles. As a part-time student, she has balanced her education in a way that works best for her, focusing on what she cannot accomplish outside the classroom while continuing to stay deeply involved on campus.
Addie’s list of activities reflects both her drive and her willingness to try new things. From softball and tennis to drama club, a cappella choir, select choir, thespians, Hope Squad, culinary club, drum line and band, she has embraced nearly every opportunity available. Her involvement in plays and musicals has further strengthened her love for the stage, while each activity has contributed to her growth as a person.
“These things have pushed me to be better and shaped me into who I am today,” she said. “They’ve taught me life skills, life lessons and helped me find friends and family in places I never would have expected.”
Her accomplishments reflect that same dedication. Earning her culinary Career and Technical Education (CTE) certification stands as a major milestone, representing both hard work and personal growth. In music, she achieved the honor of being selected for honor choir three consecutive years—an achievement that required both discipline and consistency. Her talents have also taken her beyond the classroom, including performing the national anthem at numerous events.
In theater, Addie has continued to expand her impact, stepping into a leadership role by directing a one-act production of Suite Surrender, which is set to be performed April 21 through 24. She also found success alongside Zachary LeBlanc in duet musical performance through thespians, earning a top 15 percent finish and the opportunity to travel to Indiana to compete at the International Thespian Festival.
As graduation approaches, Addie is keeping her future open, guided by both curiosity and ambition. She is considering multiple paths, including trade school, serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, or even taking time to travel. No matter where she lands, one thing remains certain—she plans to continue pursuing theater, auditioning for plays and musicals while working toward becoming a vocal teacher. She also hopes to continue advocating for dyslexia awareness, particularly within theater spaces.
Her advice to younger students is simple but meaningful: take chances and enjoy the experience.
“You miss 100 percent of the chances you don’t take,” she said. “Put yourself out there and most importantly don’t forget to have fun. If you aren’t having fun, you are doing something wrong.”
Even as she looks ahead, Addie remains deeply involved in her final months at PVHS. She is currently raise funds to support travel to the International Thespian Festival and is also planning a culinary senior dinner in the coming weeks—another opportunity to showcase her creativity and growth.
For Addie Allen, high school has been more than a series of classes and activities. It has been a place where she found her voice, embraced her passions and built a foundation for whatever comes next.
