My name is Nyla Lassiter, and I am a senior at Burlington Township High School in New Jersey. I am a member of the Tri-M Music Honor Society and the National Honor Society. In addition to my academics, I actively participate in clubs such as Interact and Women’s Issues, where I contribute to meaningful conversations and community service projects. Additionally, I am an All-Star Cheerleader with an outside program. This fall, I will be attending the University of Oregon, where I plan to major in Communication Disorders and Science, to later become a speech pathologist. With a minor in Spanish and a possible second minor in Ethnic Studies. My decision to pursue this field was deeply inspired by my brother. He is minimally verbal and autistic, and for him, communication is challenging. However, with the support of his speech pathologist, his ability to communicate has improved significantly. Watching this transformation has been life-changing for me, and it sparked my passion to pursue a career where I can help others find their voices and improve their connection with the world. I aspire to create life-changing opportunities for individuals, particularly from underrepresented communities. Many people in these communities have a deep mistrust of the healthcare system due to generational trauma, which often prevents them from seeking help. Learning about these historical injustices has made me realize how critical it is to create a space that helps rebuild that trust, and be someone who listens, provides appropriate care, and ensures that every individual feels seen and heard. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, a mere 3.6% of speech-language pathologists identify as Black or African American. The lack of representation in the healthcare field significantly influences my goals as an African American woman, as I often felt discouraged from pursuing a career in STEM because I rarely saw someone who looked like me in these fields. Growing up, I didn't have many role models who shared my identity, either in the media or in real life. However, as I got older, I began to realize the importance of seeing someone with similar experiences or backgrounds. When I witnessed others in STEM achieving their goals, it inspired me and showed me that I, too, can have a successful future. Through my journey, I hope to prove that success knows no boundaries and that anyone, regardless of their background, can be successful in the field of their choice.

When I first started listening to K-pop, I dabbled in different groups and artists, finding it difficult to immerse myself in stan culture. I felt like I was not a real fan since I was not there from the beginning. I did not understand past references or the group's concept. This all changed when I watched my first survival show, I-LAND, which resulted in the formation of Enhypen. Watching these kids being filmed 24/7, even in their most vulnerable moments, made me realize that being a fan is not just about favoriting a group. It is about supporting a dream. This thought process impacted my life. Even though our lives are different, we share the similarity of wanting to make our dreams a reality. We have people in our corner cheering for us at every move, hoping that we succeed. Each member of Enhypen faced significant challenges throughout their journey but they never let that stop their stride to greatness. They pushed through many barriers that tried to hold them back, and turned them into barricades at their concerts in front of thousands of people who are shouting their names. Names that they made for themselves as a result of their hard work and dedication. Millions of Engenes see it as we too grew alongside them. We have made mistakes with them, learned lessons with them, and grew into better versions of ourselves with them. This made me realize that the hardships we face will all be worth it if we make them worth it. Globally, Enhypen has created a community filled with different cultures, races, and religions. Where we all speak one language: “Yang Jungwon, Lee Heeseung, Park Jongseong, Sim Jaeyun, Park Sunghoon, Kim Sunoo, Ni-ki, ENHYPEN!” Enhypen’s journey has inspired me to push through my own challenges and strive for greatness. Their impact on global culture is undeniable, as they have brought people from all walks of life together through their music and message. They have shown me that no matter where you come from or what obstacles you face, with hard work and determination, you can achieve your dreams. Enhypen is my favorite K-pop group because they have not only influenced my life but also created a global community of fans who support and uplift each other. Their story is a testament to the power of dreams and the importance of perseverance, and I am proud to be an Engene.