This is a storyboard I crafted at the age of seventeen, driven by a desire to share a story about my own people that has always resonated within me. My ancestors hailed from Taiwan, an island nation in East Asia. They were originally a self-sufficient and content group of indigenous people, yet in 1874, they were attacked and their land was occupied by the troops of a neighboring country, leading to a large number of residents suffering from brutal killings and looting. Despite committing no crimes, they were stripped of everything simply because those with weapons and cannons desired it all. As a child, I was indifferent to this history, even hating that I had such lineage. Why was my skin yellower than others? Why was I the one facing discrimination from society? It wasn't until I grew older and encountered a documentary about this event that I gained understanding. I saw countless people sacrifice and struggle for the peace and freedom I now take for granted; I saw the valiant efforts of my ancestors fighting for equality. I vividly recall that autumn afternoon, tears streaming down my face as I watched in front of the TV, seeing those people, clothes soaked with blood, sweat, and tears, raising the torches of resistance high in protest. I've always loved animation and have long hoped to share my own story with everyone. The indignation towards history drove me to create this storyboard. Eighteen frames may not be enough to tell this important history, but it's enough to start a story and would further draw more attention to this tragic history. The mediums I used are colored pencils and graphite pencils. I chose bright pink attire for the protagonist's tribe, not only for mine cultural significance but also as a symbol of fresh blood and the ongoing struggle for justice. I believe art and the audience are not just about appreciation and being appreciated but also serve as a means of communication between creators and others. In addition to conveying emotions, messages, and values, it can also be used to tell stories. This creation is very important to me; it not only honed my skills in designing storyboards, drawing characters, and environments but also serves as a poignant reminder of our history. Now I can fully embrace all aspects of myself, whether it's my heritage or coming from a less privileged family. I frequently revisit this creation, learning from history's lessons not to repeat past mistakes, while also cherishing the love and support I have now.

Video games, often dismissed by some as mere distractions, have been instrumental in shaping who I am today, serving as both a gateway to creativity and a platform for learning invaluable life skills. Among these, Minecraft stands out as a shining example of how a seemingly simple game can have profound, positive effects on one's life. Minecraft, with its limitless possibilities, has been a canvas for my imagination. In its blocky realms, I've built everything from modest houses to grand castles, each construction a reflection of my evolving creativity and problem-solving skills. This game taught me the importance of planning and resource management, as every structure I envisioned required careful consideration of materials and their acquisition. It mirrored real-life challenges, where success often hinges on preparation and the efficient use of resources. Moreover, Minecraft has played a significant role in enhancing my social skills and broadening my network. Through its multiplayer mode, I've collaborated with players from around the globe on various projects, from simple farms to complex redstone contraptions. These interactions not only fostered a sense of community and teamwork but also exposed me to diverse cultures and perspectives, enriching my worldview. The friendships formed in these virtual worlds have been genuine. Although I have lost some friends during these years, it does provide that connections made in digital spaces can be as meaningful as those in the physical world. Beyond the social and creative aspects, Minecraft served as a refuge during challenging times. Its peaceful, sandbox environment offered an escape from stress, providing a space where I could focus on simple, enjoyable tasks. The game's day-night cycle, along with the need to gather resources and build shelter, instilled in me a sense of responsibility and time management. These virtual challenges mirrored the obstacles we face in our daily lives, teaching me that with perseverance and a positive attitude, any problem can be overcome. The educational value of Minecraft cannot be overstated. It introduced me to basic principles of geometry, architecture, and even computer programming through redstone circuits. The game's modding community further expanded this learning experience, as I dabbled in creating custom mods, which honed my coding skills and sparked an interest in software development. This curiosity led me down a path of self-education in programming languages and software design, skills that are highly valuable in today's technology-driven world. In essence, video games like Minecraft have been much more than sources of entertainment; they have been teachers, companions, and catalysts for personal growth. Through gaming, I've learned the importance of creativity, collaboration, and perseverance. I've found comfort during times of stress and discovered passions that have shaped my academic and career aspirations. As I look back on the countless hours spent in these virtual worlds, I'm thankful for the lessons learned and the experiences gained. Video games have undeniably left a positive mark on my life, demonstrating that, when engaged with mindfully, they can be powerful tools for learning and development.