Jessica Langway, known as “Jessie Chris” by her fans, is not a typical Algonquin student. In fact, she’s no longer at Algonquin. Completing her senior year through online classes, Jessie Chris is pursuing a country singing career, equipped with music videos, tours and TV appearances.

Q: What is it like to be taken out of senior year to work on your music career?
A: “Being taken out of school to work on my career is a huge responsibility. I still have to do online classes and I even had to do school over the summer. Juggling school with my hectic schedule is definitely a challenge. Along with having to get the work done, I also miss my friends from school. However, it is also a blessing because I now have the ability to do what I love full time.”

Q: When did you know you wanted to pursue this seriously and not just as a hobby?
A: “Ever since I was a little girl you’d find me singing, dancing, or playing the guitar. I always knew that this is what I wanted to do with my career.”

Q: What is your greatest achievement so far as a rising country singer?
A: “So far, some of my greatest achievements have been opening up for country stars like Steve Azar and Chris Young, and writing and recording my first full length album in Nashville. Also being a part of the Allstar Nation antibullying tour has been an amazing accomplishment. I got to sing for more than a thousand kids a day when touring, and to get to spread my personal message about antibullying. Along with the rewarding feeling of inspiring kids who are bullied to stay strong, this tour has also given me incredible media exposure, everything from radio interviews to singing on live TV.”

Q: What is the biggest obstacle you had to face in getting where you are today?
A: “One of the biggest obstacles I face in trying to chase my dream is having to be away from the people I love, like my friends and family while I am traveling. Also having to manage a hectic schedule and still find time to have fun and be a teenager. Basically when you’re touring you don’t know when you’ll eat or sleep because you’re working non-stop. It’s been an insane amount of work and dedication just to get where I am today, but I know all the hard work is worth it.”