What started as a side project for author Jordan Christy, quickly turned into what she said was a life-changing experience.

"I mentioned something to my husband about how ridiculous it was that the headlines were about Paris Hilton," Christy said. "And it sparked something." 

After researching literary agents and publishers, Christy said she found an agent who liked her book idea. Six months later, Christy's book was published. That was two years ago.

Christy, author of bestseller "How to Be a Hepburn in a Hilton World," spoke to USU students Wednesday in the TSC Ballroom about being confident and classy.

"Having class or showing class are synonymous to each other," Christy said during her speech. "Integrity and being classy go hand in hand, too."

Christy said work ethic, language and friends are three ways to "spot class a mile away." 

"A little work ethic goes a long way," she said.

Marie Squyres, ASUSU Arts and Lectures director, said she contacted Christy and asked her to speak. Squyres said she wants to get a variety of speakers for the university. 

"I had read her book and felt that it was down to earth," Squyres said. "It was like talking to your best friend, and it was applicable to guys, too. Jordan Christy talks about values that we are losing in society. Her whole book is about reaffirming core values over media values."

Christy said her book is a "modern-day etiquette book." 

"I wanted to let other girls know that they shouldn't be ashamed of being confident," she said. "I want to give girls a boost of confidence. You don't have to be a wallflower or be ashamed of being yourself. If the character and beauty aren't in the inside, then it's not on the outside. Class attracts class — share the same values and be upfront about them to other people."

Ashley Benjamin, a USU student, said she attended the speech because she'd read Christy's book. 

"I thought it was a good perspective," Benjamin said. "I think Jordan embodies the values that she writes about. Everything Jordan talked about exuded her own confidence and classiness." 

Student Harrison Davis said he agreed with what Christy said about values. 

"I think what she said makes a girl more attractive — when the outer self is the same as the inner self," Davis said. 

Christy spoke to the men, too. She talked about her husband and how he encouraged her to write the book. Christy suggested men read "The Art of Manliness," which is similar to her book but written for men. 

"I think guys are just really honest. Things are always black and white with them," she said. 

Christy said her experience of becoming a best-selling author was "humbling." She said she never expected it to reach across cultures, but "it's a message that resonates with people."

 

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