Shruthika Padhy, Speller 290 and a New Jersey seventh grader, is out on "paillasson," coarsely woven natural or synthetic straw used for hats.
Shruthika tied for 22nd place in 2016 and seventh place last year.
Shruthika, wearing Jordan 1s, said she's “kind of used to” being in the finals now.
“I've been through this,” she said. “I know more now.”
She's a Cavs fan – last year, she wore her Kyrie 3 Nikes – and said she hopes to visit Nike headquarters.
Shruthika also plays field hockey and several musical instruments, including harmonium, piano, flute and guitar.
Her younger brother, Prachet, said Shruthika is the reason he's smart.