Known around campus for her singing ability, senior Chidima Ubah broadens her exposure by competing in Houston’s Got Talent, landing a spot in the finals and beating 25 other contestants.

“At first, I didn’t want to enter the competition because I wasn’t 18 yet and I would be competing with people in their thirties who had more experience than I did,” said Ubah. “However, my voice instructor went behind my back, singed me up and was able to pull some strings that allowed me to participate.”

Although she experienced anxiety about entering the competition, the overall grand prize was enough to keep her in the game.

“I will be flown to New York to compete against the other people who have won around the country, and I will be able to release my single Mirror, which I helped write,” said Ubah. “People are able to hear a portion of the song if they go on the competition’s website.”

While singing, Ubah models her flair and attitude from her iconic inspirations.

“Whitney Houston is my role model; to me she was perfect,” said Ubah. “She was beautiful and a well rounded person because she could not only sing but act. I also love Beyonce and have learned most of her songs, which are fun to sing.”

While staying grounded, Ubah hopes that the competition will help push her into the direction of fame.

“I want to become a pop star who is into fashion, but at the same time I want to be able to wear what I wear in front of my pastor,” said Ubah. “ Being inspirational for young girls is the overall goal that I have for myself. Although most celebrities live in either LA or New York City, I love Houston, and honestly I would like to continue to live here when I’m older. I want to be able to always relate back to my roots, remember the people I grew up with, and remember everyone who has helped me get where I am today. Without them, I wouldn’t be on this path.”