Poppe shares struggles, successes during speech at G-R High School

Butler County’s own Maddie Poppe – who is currently competing on ABC’s American Idol – took a break from the hustle and bustle of Hollywood last week to make an appearance at the Gladbrook- Reinbeck High School, where she gave an empowering speech to local elementary school students about overcoming obstacles and chasing success.

Poppe shared some personal highs and lows of her singing career with the youngsters, and encouraged them to always keep chasing their dreams, even if it seems impossible.

“When people see a [celebrity] on TV, they sometimes don’t realize the hard work that went into getting there,” Poppe said. “Some people think that person just woke up one day and decided to become famous. But they don’t see all the stuff that goes on behind the scenes; all the hard work, the rejection and the struggles that come before you get that chance.”

Poppe recounted the many times she felt rejection before having the chance to compete on American Idol.

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