Cassidy Arredondo lived out many a girl’s dream at the Mexican Heritage Society’s 48^th Annual Fiesta in Port Arthur — she became queen her first time onstage.

Arredondo won the Miss Mexican Heritage Society Queen title and crown for 2016.

“I entered one week before the deadline was due,” Arredondo said. “They needed girls to enter, and I thought I should give it a shot.”

It was not Arredondo’s first time attending the Heritage Fiesta, as she had helped in the backstage area and with scorecards the previous two years.

However, it was her first time entering the pageant.

“When they called my name, I cried my eyes out. I didn’t expect to become queen,” Arredondo said. “I think it says that you can do anything if you’re confident and put yourself out there.”

It especially meant something more for the 17-year old queen, whose own heritage comes from an equal blend of Mexican and Cajun roots.

“It makes me feel proud because I don’t speak fluent Spanish,” Arredondo said, who added that her father comes from Mexico.

“So, sometimes when I’m here [Port Neches], I don’t feel 100% Mexican; but that’s okay because I’m proud of myself and my culture.”

For the PNG junior, she does plan to attend college after she graduates.

“I would like to attend Texas State University in San Marcos,” Arredondo said.

She wants to study Forensic Science.

“I’m in two law classes right now and I love to find out the little details and piece things together,” Arredondo said.

She even cited the character of Abby Sciuto from the television series “NCIS” as an inspiration for her desired profession; although, Arredondo acknowledged with a grin that she would probably not be allowed to dress like the forensic scientist from the show, who usually dresses in a punk-gothic wardrobe.

When not going to school or winning heritage pageants, Arredondo enjoys activities like many her age.

“I like to play tennis, hang out with friends and family… I also go to church on Saturdays with my family.”

At the church, Arredondo likes to make positive differences in children’s lives.

“I’m a peer tutor at St. Elizabeth’s,” Arredondo said. “That means I get to work with second graders and help them learn [new things].”

When asked what prompted her toward volunteer work in the community, Arredondo answered,

“I don’t like going out all the time — instead, I’m inspired by my religion.”

Arredondo is Roman Catholic.

Meanwhile, the 2016 Heritage Queen was not afraid to relinquish her crown when the time comes.

“I’m okay with giving away my title because I’m excited to get on stage once more, Arredondo said with a laugh. “It was really fun.”