Thalia Nguyen will be representing Kern County at the Scripps National Spelling Bee starting on Tuesday in Maryland.

The talented 12-year-old from Freedom Middle School also plays multiple instruments and sports, including golf and volleyball.

She also participates in dance and has a black belt in Taekwondo, but right now she's focused on getting ready for the national competition.

"I kind of use prior knowledge to spell my words and I also have a little bit of photographic memory," said Nguyen.

"So when I look at words it helps me, so I can spell them."

The three-day event begins Tuesday and the finals will take place on Thursday.

When the event begins, you'll be able to stream it here and on our mobile and tablet apps.