Growing up I lived in the inner city. I was alone when it came to having people in my
neighborhood. I grew up as an only child and with adults. Those in my neighborhood are all dear
to me, and without them, I would not have grown into the person I am today. Some of these
members have helped me to become more confident, some have helped me to grow as a leader,
while others have helped me to learn how to relax and just have fun. Living in the inner city I
saw many things. I grew up in what people would call the “ghetto.” I can vividly remember
hiding in the bathtub while gunshots were being fired off. Or the time I was in the hot tub outside
with my mom and SWAT did a drug bust on the house next door and we had no idea whether or
not to run into the house or sink lower in the hot tub.
My mom did everything she could to raise me so that I wouldn’t have to live in this
situation and could have a better future for myself. I was raised in a single parent household with
no support by child support from my father. She did everything for me no matter how much she
struggled. She afforded me the best private education she could. I attended Catholic schools pre-
k through 6 and then I attended the Wellington School. While at Wellington I experienced many
things. I was teased and bullied for being the black girl from the hood who was afforded and rich
white kids education. They called me Oreo, whitewashed, confused, and many more things. I
was teased for not having straight hair and for wearing braids in my hair. I was bullied for being
black and for being plus size, something I should’ve been very proud of. I had to learn to accept
myself and have tough skin.
I had a very non-traditional high school experience. My freshman year I attended Bishop
Ready for three months before I switched schools. I switched because I wasn’t academically
challenged and they wouldn’t give me one. I then attended an online homeschooling program
through OHDELA. They noticed I was gifted and asked me to join the CCP Program. Ever since
I have been on track to graduate early and with an Associates Degree at the age of 16.
My views have allowed me to understand the importance of having a life where all are