Caryn Balnis Could Be The Next Hawk Hitmaker

Vital Stats:

Name: Caryn Balnis
Age: 18
From: Oneonta, New York
Singing Experience: Tried karaoke for the first time at age 10. Has competed singing all across New York state.
Heroes: "Jim Cantore from the weather channel. That has nothing to do with singing, but he's a hunk"

Favorite Country Artist: Miranda Lambert
Country Crush: Josh Turner

The Inside Scoop:

Caryn's Jim Cantore answer might sound out of place at first. But, it makes sense once you get to talk this weather enthusiast and future Hartwick College student:

I hope to eventually transfer out to Oklahoma for meteorology. It's right in tornado alley. I want to be a storm chaser - specifically. Ever since I was little, I've loved watching the weather channel. I actually call the weather channel to report report snow and rain. I remember their phone number!

To the country music skeptic:

I was brought up on country music and Shania Twain was one of my favorites. Country music has a certain authenticity and attitude to it that resonates with me

To potential voters:

I love singing a wide variety of music, but country music highlights my voice the best. Winning the Hitmaker would make me a winner at heart. It would probably make me a popular kid at school too haha

Here is Caryn's song. Take a listen and look out for your opportunity to vote once all 10 contestants have been profiled: