If you ever see a car with a personalized license plate that spells out a Harry Styles song, know you can ‘just keep driving’ alongside Charlotte Murray.
Whether she’s getting ready in the morning to the upbeat anthems of Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo or Harry Styles; or winding down with the soothing sounds of Swift’s Folklore album, music fuels her every mood. One of her happiest memories is from a concert—the Eras Tour by Taylor Swift.
“My sister, cousin, and I were all dressed in matching sunglasses and coordinated outfits. Our cheerful faces cover the screen,” Murray recalled.
Murray’s connection with her family is strong, and she loves spending time with her cousin and sister at school. However, she also shares her home with so many more loved ones.
“I have 3 cats, 2 bunnies, and 1 dog who I enjoy spending my time with,” Murray said. “They consistently brighten my day and I love knowing that they are always there to comfort me when I feel stressed.”
Murray says that hanging out with her family is an integral part of her happiness. Whether she’s playing pickleball with her cousin or curling up on the couch to watch a rom-com with her mom, her family is always there to help her recharge.
And of course, Murray enjoys some fun memories with her friends. She recalls her 17th birthday, a surprise beach picnic planned by her mom and aunt.
“We had cupcakes and lots of sweets,” Murray recalled. “My friends and I took lots of pictures and dipped our feet into the ocean.”
Although there’s a lot of love around her community, Murray also enjoys adventures away from home. She recently went on a road trip through France with her mother and sister.
“We went from Paris to the South of France and we had an absolute blast,” Murray explained. “We ate, shopped, explored, and ate some more, leaving barely any time to rest.”
Naturally, Murray’s hopes for the future include traveling around the world to destinations like Tahiti, Africa and Italy. But Murray first hopes to graduate from college, a goal she’s already begun her journey on.
“My favorite subject is AP Psychology. I find the concepts very relatable to real life,” Murray said. “My sister and cousin are also in the class so it makes it even more fun.”
Murray carries her passions outside of school too. Her quiet, kind nature helps her when she’s volunteering at the Sunrise Assisted Living Home in Westlake, where she tends to the elderly.
“I am very shy around people I haven’t gotten to fully know,” Murray said. “But I am a hard worker who never lets any challenge stop me from trying my best.”
But at the end of the day, Murray lets herself be guided by selfless principles: kindness and service to others.
“I always put my best foot forward and help people when they need it,” Murray said. “I want people to remember me for the love I give to others. I spread love to those around me and I hope everyone notices how much they mean to me.”
