Alumni F15

“How about you, &&&&&&? Would you like to give it a shot?” My 3rd-grade teacher said with a friendly smile dancing on her lips, awakening me from my daydream. I glanced at the simple math equation written on the whiteboard and instantly solved it in my head. Before I could muster up the courage to speak, one of my classmates said, “She doesn’t speak, Miss. She’s a mute.” The rest of the class laughed as the teacher quickly silenced them. I put my head back down on the cold wooden desk. I was used to being overlooked; many kids in my small classroom of 20 students had yet to even learn my name. I had become accustomed to never being picked first for group projects or even teams for kickball games. I always felt underappreciated, as if my academic hard work was ignored simply because I was too shy to brag about it.

I began to break out of my bubble when I started high school. I began speaking more and making more friends, but I still struggled with putting myself out there academically. Since I was perceived as independent and dissociated, people often assumed I was less qualified than they were. Some even spoke to me with such caution as if I were made of glass, threatening to shatter at any moment. During my junior year of high school, my English teacher recommended that I join a program called 20/20 Leadership. She was well aware of my introvert-like tendencies and insisted that it would help me open up. Frustrated with being unable to showcase and be recognized for my intelligence, I applied for the program with high hopes of change.

Joining 20/20 Leadership was one of the best decisions I’ve made for myself thus far. I was allowed to collaborate with students from other schools, explore several careers and trades at expos, prepare for my academic future, and expand my network. These activities drastically improved my character and worth ethic. Since joining, I am no longer the quiet and withdrawn student I used to be. I insert myself into conversations and always find a way to help my classmates when needed. Although I am still quiet, I am not at all timid. I dare to speak up without the fear of being ridiculed. 

The wisdom I have learned in this program will live through me forever. As I continue to explore endless possibilities while finding my place in life, I will never forget how 20/20 Leadership improved my life. The skills I have learned will help fulfill my entrepreneurial dream. I can demonstrate my leadership skills by influencing others, being reliable, providing help when needed, and being positive and patient. As my memorable time at 20/20 Leadership comes to an end, I aspire to leave a legacy behind me. Leaving a legacy means being a role model for the future of this program and sharing wisdom. My teacher and advisor, &&&&&& &&&&&, inspires me to set an example for the incoming juniors and seniors as she has. Once I can, it is my goal to repay her and my other mentors at this program for all they have done for me. I will continuously promote 20/20 Leadership to students in the future and give back to the program and its students in any way I can.