Dear Katherine,

Have my ASB interview for president on Monday. Very very nervous. Would appreciate a Katherine pep talk. Confidence is something I’m working on, could use advice from the confidence queen.

Sincerely,
Grace

My Dearest Grace,

Nervous? No, darling. Not you. Not after everything you’ve done to get here. Every late night, every decision, every moment you spent preparing has led to this. Now you have an opportunity to stand before a room and own it.

You think I survived this long on charm alone? Please. I outmaneuvered entire bloodlines because I did the work. I planned. I studied my enemies. I knew my strengths, and I made sure everyone else knew them, too. Confidence isn’t pretending you belong—it’s knowing you do.

So when you speak, be deliberate. Not rushed, not uncertain. You’re not convincing them you’re the right choice—you’re showing them exactly why. You’ve done the work, you know what you’re talking about, and they need someone who can lead with that kind of certainty. Show them you’re already thinking ten steps ahead. Because that’s what a leader does.

So when you walk into that room on Monday, shoulders back. chin up. And for the love of all thing, wear some fabulous shoes. Speak slowly and clearly. And if you feel the nerves creeping in? Smile like you’re about to outsmart an entire room of Salvatores.

But remember this: whether they hand you the crown or not, the real victory is in the pursuit. And you know how I love a good pursuit! Here’s the thing, you’ve sharpened your mind, honed your skills, and shown everyone (including yourself) exactly what you’re capable of!

With all my wicked little heart,

Katherine