The 21-year-old will compete for the top prize this weekend on the season finale and was treated to a day's worth of events across the Coachella Valley. She reflected on her journey with our ABC affiliate in Palm Springs.
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"Being home ... it's where I'm meant to be," said Carter. "Even if it doesn't keep me, I always come back to it. It's a breath of fresh air. Hot air for sure! But it's a breath of fresh air."
A parade and a hometown concert are also planned for Carter.
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The "American Idol" finale will take place on Sunday, May 19, on ABC.