Although this piece is not tied to the theme “Taking Our Place in History,” it does take place in my own history of living in a world where someone of my shade of color grows up Hispanic.
Strange Combination
Memoir & Personal Essay
An Ode To Who We Will Be
This is written for my mother, who built independence in me.
The Journey We Take
All of our stories deserve to be heard, which is why I decided to share mine. This experience has been the motivation that pushes me to demonstrate to others, and myself, what I am capable of.
Wanted Food, But I Had Homework
This all started out with a six-word prompt written by a classmate of mine, “wanted food, but I had homework.” I ended up turning it into something special to myself, and something relatable to everyone in high school.
You’re too young, you wouldn’t understand
This is for anyone who has ever said or heard the words “you’re too young.” It’s for the generation before me, after me and most of all—mine. It’s for all my friends, who are frustrated daily by the adults in our lives and for the adults in our lives who’ve forgotten what it’s like to be young.
Cracks of Sunshine
This piece is about my struggle with depression and mental health.
A Letter
This is a goodbye letter to all the relationships that shaped me as a person.
Embarking
As my time in high school comes to an end, I am reflecting upon my strength during times of change. I choose to continue with the resilience I have developed and carry it onward while embarking on my new journey.
relating to, derived from, or consisting of matter: having real importance or great consequences
In honor of Black History Month, I have written a piece that reflects on everyday reminders of slavery. I draw an unconventional parallel between my life and the experience of an enslaved woman.
the brighter sun
This piece unintentionally secured itself a special place in my heart. It reflects my feelings, my aspirations, and my hope that this new country will allow me to embrace my new place in history.
Valentine’s Day
Each year I become a victim to the elaborate scheme that is Valentine’s Day propaganda, getting unreasonably self-conscious when the day never goes as planned. But my friends have made me realize that I can be loved without romance involved.
childhood archeology / Teenage Fever Dream
These are two poems that reflect back on our younger selves.
As a Woman
This piece is about the double standards that plague society and force women to be small.
Part One of Thirteen of 13 Ways of Looking at Being Female-Bodied
I sat in Port with my legs curled up on the floor, leaning up against my bunk bed.
Writing Found Me
Writing took me with open arms and accepted me for who I am.