ESSAY PROMPT: Please compose a 500-600 word essay that addresses each of the following questions: Reflecting on your participation in the 20/20 Leadership program, how have you grown as a leader? How will you use what you’ve learned in the future? What does “leaving a legacy” mean to you?

Alumni F10

Growing up with a Filipino mother and a Persian father, I always felt like an outsider in my predominantly white Catholic school. My peers would often ridicule my heritage, and instead of fighting back, I tried to fit in. I prayed to look like the Barbies in my class, with lighter hair, paler skin, and smaller lips. I was ashamed of who I was and rejected my heritage.

But everything changed when I enrolled in a diverse high school. I realized that ridiculing my heritage wouldn’t make it disappear. Instead, I needed to embrace it and emerge with strength. I wanted to be brave and defend myself when I was getting made fun of for my features. And that’s when I found 20/20 Leadership.

At first, I didn’t know how much knowledge I would gain from the program. But it turned out to be life-changing. It developed my open-mindedness and gave me a plethora of skills to navigate my future. I learned how to network and communicate effectively, advocate for myself and others, and work in a team.

One of the most important things I learned was how to craft an elevator speech. I still use this tool today when I network with someone, and it gives me confidence knowing that I belong in any space.

The 20/20 Olympics project gave me the chance to practice everything I had learned in the program. My team advocated for mental health care in our diverse school by implementing a designated mental health space. It was a great way for me to grow my public speaking and communication skills. I used to be shy and timid, but now I speak with fiery passion and purpose. I stand up for myself and have clear-cut boundaries.

Because of 20/20, I was inspired to participate in a Social Change Internship. My team’s goal was to educate students and develop inclusive activities for students of all backgrounds. It’s an ongoing passion project for me. I also became the president of the medical club and college ambassadors, where I get to mentor younger classmates and peers.

As an aspiring physician, I’m excited to advocate for my patients and educate them on health concerns through public health. I also aim to be a mentor to youth within my community, giving back to the future generations for everything that my mentors have given me.

Leaving a legacy means making a positive impact on my community, even in small ways. Through my experiences with the mental health room plan, I learned the importance of advocating for and improving my community. My journey of self-discovery is far from over, but I’m confident that I will continue to positively impact my community and leave a lasting legacy.

Overall, the 20/20 Leadership program has been an integral part of my growth as a leader. It helped me embrace my identity, develop valuable skills, and gain confidence in myself. I’m excited to carry these lessons with me throughout my career and continue making a positive impact on the world.

 

WORD COUNT:500