ST. LOUIS COUNTY, Mo. — A Crestview Middle School student was recently named a national finalist in a Doodle For Google contest.

It was announced earlier this month that Grace Dai won first place in the state for her artwork that features her and her brother practicing self care outdoors along with their pets.

She told Spectrum News that winning state was a “huge shock.”

“Never, even entering the competition, did I think about winning state. I entered the contest originally for fun (it was nearing the last stretch of school before summer, and I was feeling burnout), so I never expected to make it this far,” Dai said. 

The national finalists were announced Thursday, July 28, online where Dai’s artwork was chosen among the top five. Each finalist will receive a $5,000 college scholarship, Google hardware and Google swag.

“I’ve entered into plenty of art contests in the past, which came to no avail. However, this contest has been a huge motivation for me to keep trying, and will push me to continue reaching for further heights,” Dai said.

Her Doodle For Google piece focuses on nature and her passions. 

“I tried to emphasize the simple yet subtle cycles in nature, by showing how the bird hunts the worm and the bee pollinates the flower,” Dai said. 

“I love to draw, which is why I hold a sketchbook. I also love music, which is why my brother holds a flute. The mandatory words ‘Google’ can be found in the shadows, the figures, and the clouds in the back.” 

Dai said she is thankful for the support of her mom, ELA teacher, her best friend, among other supporters who never doubted how far she could go in the competition. 

“I think it’s safe to say that a Google role model truly is one of the greatest things you could have, and also why you should be kind to everyone,” she said.