Meet The Face of Foothills 2012 Winner!
Name: Caitlin Wilenchik
Age: 21
From: Paradise Valley
School: University of Arizona
Major and Minor: Journalism, Art History minor
Job: Would like to be a Broadcast Journalist.
Arizona Foothills Magazine: What does winning Face of Foothills mean to you?
It means so much! It validates me to be chosen as the cover of such an amazing publication. I’ve grown up in Arizona all of my life, and I’ve seen the magazine time after time as it’s delivered to my house, and who would have known that I could be one of those high fashion models they have gracing one of those covers! But I also feel so blessed that the staff at the Arizona Foothills Magazine believed in me so much to make me the face of their magazine, and my family believed in me that much to push me forward to this point. This was truly a joint effort, and I will always remember this fabulous year as their face, and I’ll bask in it for quite awhile!
AFM: How do you plan to fulfill the roles of Face of Foothills?
I will always be available for the magazine with whatever I am needed for. I make this a full commitment, and as the face, I will make sure to represent the magazine at all times in a reputable way. I will work very hard to not disappoint the staff, or readers! I’ve also got the energy and excitement going for me right now because I cannot wait to start fulfilling those roles!
AFM: Were you surprised when you were chosen to be the winner?
Yes! Absolutely! I was preparing myself for the worst, just in case, but because it was the best, I was ecstatic! Still am.
AFM: Describe your Face of Foothills support team.
Well, this would be my family. And during this contest, it was also my extended family voting all the way from Minnesota and North Dakota! Even though my family has so much to do in their daily lives, they took the time to send me numerous emails and phone calls to make sure they were keeping me in the competition. They were all so motivated, even when I would get discouraged at times, which people do. My wonderful grandma even sent a few emails panicked that her votes were not counting, when her computer ran out of Wifi. My brother was quick to help, and granny got back to her duties! My mom, dad, and brother were all there at the event supporting me mentally, physically, and electronically! Just showing their support meant the world to me.
AFM: When we spoke with you on your Face of Foothills Interview, you mentioned one of your mentors being someone in Egypt. Will you tell us about her and why she is so inspirational in your life?
Lara Logan! I had the opportunity to listen to her speak at a Journalism conference in New Orleans, LA. First of all, she is a Broadcast Journalist, and an awesome one. I remembered hearing about her horrible ordeal in Egypt in the press, but when she spoke of it, she mentioned how she was mad at herself for not getting what she came for, the story. Anyone who can go through a nasty ordeal like she did, but want to push on even further because of it and not give up, well that’s a strong woman right there, and a hero of mine. Don’t let anything stop you from what you want out of life.
AFM: Love Life? Are you dating anyone?
Yes! I am! It’s been almost two years now! He’s awesome, especially for supporting me throughout all of my goals, and being my rock in some difficult times. He’s my best friend, and such a genuine person. Also a motivating force in my life.
AFM: Interesting facts or tidbits you would want to share with us?
I live life with no regrets. I grew up in a rural area near Cave Creek, AZ, and this lifestyle allowed for a lot of inner-reflection. I am thankful for this, because I was constantly getting to know myself, and caring for nature, and the animals that God has created in this wonderful life we all share. It is very important to simply be thankful for this, and to understand that things may come in the way of this understanding, but if we constantly remind ourselves of our roots, and what ultimately matters in our live’s, it will be complete. My mother has been diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease, which is hereditary, but this event has caused my family to not sweat the small stuff, and realize how short life is, but this means take hold of the goals we have now, not later.
AFM: Describe your day-to-day lifestyle. Is there anything you are looking forward to?
My day-to-day involves a lot of school. I am excited to break up that monotony and do something fun, new, and different! Being the Face of Foothills is going to be a new adventure that will bring me to places and events that I would have never ventured without this honor! Every day is something to look forward to, and there’s always a challenge that awaits.
AFM: What book have you read in the last year that has special meaning to you and why?
Whenever I finish a new book it is my obsession, and I like to talk about it. To pick a favorite is difficult, but The Help was a great book. I had to read it before the movie came out, but it was definitely inspiring and a tearjerker. I love inspirational reads, currently I am reading Heaven is for Real: A Little Boy’s Astounding Story of His Trip to Heaven.
AFM: Do you have any pets?
Yes, my wonderful dog Snooki. She was born with the name Gladys, but she’s a little spunky fur ball that didn’t match that name whatsoever, in my opinion. She is also my rock, and an excuse for me to get outside once in awhile and meditate while I take her on walks. I’d do anything for her, and I do! She’s spoiled rotten. I could really go on and on, like how she makes me purchase little filet mignon Caesar treats while I get to eat frozen dinners, but she’s totally worth it haha. She makes me a proud mom… I mean owner! Love animals too much!
Favorites
Food: cheese and crackers
Color: Green
Model: Miranda Kerr
Movie: The Blind Side
Hobby: Baking, Reading, Playing with my dog, staying active
Book: I can't pick a favorite!
Animal: Dog, or horse.
Shopping Store: Varies, Boutiques, Antiques, and Target… I can never leave with just what I came for!
