MINT HILL, N.C. -- Jaylin Adkins has a way of making everyone feel included.

It's probably why the Independence High School senior is so good with those who have special needs.

"Even the kids that are not as sociable, it means a lot when you go over and talk to them," Adkins said. She recalled a particular instance when she and others took a group with special needs Christmas shopping.

"One kid, never heard him talk before and I got partnered up with him," she said. "He ended up breaking out of his shell. They just need someone to initiate it."

It wasn't that long ago that Adkins was a shy freshman who was trying to fit in on the Patriots softball team. Her coach, Amanda Jardina, admits it took a little time for Adkins to get comfortable among the older kids.

"I think it took a little bit of us pulling it (the confidence) out of her," said Jardina. "But once she got into the game and she realized she really did fit in with the juniors, seniors."

And now Adkins is the one making the underclassman feel welcome. She has a softball scholarship to play at Limestone College next year. However she is focused on her last season of high school softball.

"I like to think I've influenced a lot of my friends and other people that you don't have to drink all the time or do drugs to have fun and be cool," Adkins said when asked if she's aware of the impact she's had at her school.

"I think I've been a good role model."