When 18-year-old Rochester resident Jennel Garcia was named one of the 12 finalists on FOX’s talent TV show “The X Factor” last week, her mind went blank.

“I don’t even remember it,” she said. “All I could think afterwards was how excited I was to be here.”

Garcia is in the running for the grand prize - a $5 million recording contract.

Since the competition began, Garcia has received praise from the judges for her renditions of rock songs, “Home Sweet Home” and “If I Was From Paris.”

Last week, Garcia performed a cover of Joan Jett’s “I Love Rock and Roll,” which garnered mixed reviews from the judges.

Judge L.A. Reid dubbed her performance a “Joan Jett parody,” while fellow judge Britney Spears called it, “hot, hot, hot.”

Although Judge Demi Lovato named Garcia as her favorite among the competitors, the teen admits that mediocre reviews from the judges used to shake her confidence.

But that’s changing. Since she first auditioned in Providence, Rhode Island months ago, Garcia says she has matured.

As a result of her newfound confidence, Garcia’s look has undergone some changes.

Since she joined the competition, Garcia has gone for an edgier look, wearing black and leather as opposed to the jeans and tank tops she used to favor.

She has also cut her hair in the style of Jett, one of her idols.

Her makeover has resulted in some criticism from judge Simon Cowell, who blamed Lovato for Garcia’s new look.

“I hate what Demi has done to you,” Cowell said.

Lovato and Spears were quick to defend Garcia’s appearance. Both said the teen now looked the part of an aspiring rock star. Garcia said she has shrugged off Cowell’s criticism.

“I did my best and I feel more confident as a person and as a performer,” she said. “My goal is to find a happy medium from the live shows now and my first audition. Some people say they like my old look and others like my new look. I feel content.”

And for now, Garcia is enjoying the ride.

“It’s really tough, but I’m having the time of my life,” she said.

Garcia will move on to the next round of the competition set to air on FOX Wednesday and Thursday nights at 8 p.m.

To see Jennel Garcia channel Joan Jett, check out the video below.