Aa a first-grader in ESL class, I avoided the words “ear” and “our” in the same sentence, fearing they’d sound the same. In third-grade, the playdates started. A girl asked for Mama’s number so her mom could call, but I knew Mama’s English was not yet strong enough to plan one. I invited my first friend to my apartment in fifth-grade. But because there was no basement, trampoline, or overflowing pantry, she didn’t want to come over again. And in seventh-grade, I studied hard for the Constitution test. It felt like perfect timing– Mama was studying for her citizenship test too. I imagined we’d travel to beaches and palm trees, just like my friends. But, a passport did not come with time off and extra money. Through my passion for social studies, I began to find the words for my experiences. There is never only one right answer. There is never only one conclusion to be made. There is never only one perspective to be considered. At Glenbrook South, I learned my third language, was exposed to new cultures and social classes, and the moments of displacement I once felt became part of a larger narrative– of immigration, working class families, embracing culture, appreciation, and empathy. Those feelings of discomfort, hardship in my family, and invaluable education serve as the foundation for the voice that I intend to use for the greater good of society– whether it’s supporting special needs students, managing language barriers, navigating finances for my family, or future avenues I will pursue. Psychology, U.S history, government, and, most importantly, the educators behind them, surpass academic knowledge and translate into tools I use to help my family, ask better questions, and will continue to motivate my legal aspirations. My deep passion for social studies shaped my character and grounded my purpose: to ensure everyone feels seen, important, and empowered. Jack Terry's story inspires me to take great pride in my Polish upbringing and embrace the struggles that come along the way. I am to ease the system of oppression that carries within my family by defending our culture and our people. Through Mr. Terry's remarkable story, I hope we all take a moment to spread awareness and use the mistakes learned from history as a warning in our future. He took his trauma and hardship and fueled it toward the greater good, which is a preeminent message for students like me.