The Online Reflector

Senior Katie Gainey reached for the stars this semester. Movie stars, that is. Gainey was part of a national contest called “Morning Glory: What’s Your Story?” and competed with people from all across the United States. The grand prize is a trip to New York City to visit the set for the 2010 movie “Morning Glory,” starring Rachel McAdams, Diane Keaton and Harrison Ford.

Although Gainey did not snag the top prize, she was named a local winner. The title earned her the chance to have a private tour of an Indianapolis television news station of her choosing.

“Even though I didn’t win the overall contest, I am really glad I did it,” Gainey said. “The support I got was overwhelming. [I got] Facebook messages, calls, e-mails. Hundreds of people showed their support.”

To enter, contestants were asked to submit a 60-second video detailing why they were a star. Gainey’s entry included such themes as overcoming obstacles and believing in yourself. Videos were posted online and voting was open to anyone with a Facebook account or e-mail address to confirm his or her identity.

“I voted two or three times,” junior Arianne Villareal said. “I was disappointed that Katie didn’t win the trip. She really deserved it.”

Gainey entered the contest on a whim. She noticed an advertisement for the contest while on Facebook and decided to give it a shot.

“I have a knack for entering contests like this and actually doing pretty well,” Gainey said. “It was a really fun experience.”

This past year has been a tough one for Gainey, who lost her grandfather over the summer.

“Katie’s had a hard year,” senior Chelsey Wood said. “I think this contest was really good for her. She got so much support from all over campus.”

Thousands of friends, family members and supporters voted for Gainey in the online contest. Twenty-one contestants submitted videos and only four winners were selected. Gainey bounced from first, second and third place throughout the voting period.

“A girl from El Paso, Texas was my main competition,” Gainey said. “She even went on the local news in Texas to ask for votes and told people to help her beat the girl from Indiana. It felt good that I was the one she was worried about beating.”

When Gainey found out she was a local winner, she was not notified of who the national winner would be.

Gainey hopes that J.T. Fetch won the overall contest. Fetch’s video detailed his battle with Crohn’s disease, and Gainey felt he was deserving of the prize.

“This contest helped me count my blessings,” Gainey said. “I can’t thank the people who supported me enough.”

Gainey, who hopes to have a future career in the film or television industry, is excited for her news station tour.

“I would love to do something with film or TV,” Gainey said. So, this is a benefit. Maybe it’s a sign. I hope so!”