I have a big Algebra exam coming up at school so I need to get organized ASAP and study so I’m one step closer to my dream of going to medical school. Wish me luck!
Nonfiction
Thank You, Dr. Mary Beck: Meet the Trailblazing Ukrainian American Councilwoman Who Saved My Family
More than 4.6 million refugees have fled Ukraine with the onslaught of Putin’s brutal invasion. More than 70 years ago, my Dido (Grandfather) Osyp, Babtsia (Grandmother) Maria, and Teta (Aunt) Helen escaped Ukraine too, thanks to the heroic efforts of a Ukrainian-American woman named Mary (Marusia) Beck.
Her Palms
The first time I realized my parents did not hold the answers of the universe in their palms was not when I was asking obscure questions about aardvarks or pirate ships.
A Splash of Light
I was floating, my elbows resting on the pool’s stone ledge as the jets massaged my back. That’s the last thing I remember.
I used to hate the rain
Acceptance comes after the storm. It poured and poured.
My Way Up
Rock climbing helps me realize that I am capable of beating all the “impossibles.”
Sheltered
The day I was born is the day the twin towers fell.
Sometimes the Way to Win Is to Quit
“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one,” is the best compliment for an overachieving young adult trying to find their way around the world. At least it was for me.
‘You Don’t Owe Anyone Anything’
The reality of missing school for a whole two weeks and dealing with the stares of society.
a lesson in pressure & prestige
Written after submitting my Early Decision application, this essay shares the epiphany I was already having—one expedited by a choice that held so much weight over my future.
The First Step Towards Making A Friend
I had no clue where I was going—let alone what academic path I truly wanted to take—so you could say I was a bit overwhelmed on my first day of college.
Rolling Through Fear: Realizations at the Rink
The time spent at the rink was too short for me to spend it wallowing in my mistakes.
Take Space, Make Space
While I used to feel fractured when it came to my heritage, poetry has helped me realize that these fractures are, in fact, who I am.
Adolescent Forms
A depiction of my journey in asking for help, this essay is my reminder that I deserve peace and welfare in a battle against the uncertainties and anxieties of my mind.
Stories from the Shag
My time-out rug was white, with blue squares and tassels at opposite ends.