Do you remember what it was like to be an eighth grader? Regardless of what type of student you were back then (obedient or distracted) one cannot deny what a crazy ride middle school can be. Between the cliques, peer pressure, expectations; there is just so much to deal with.
This past week Dream Big Project visited Waite Middle School in Norwalk where we were able to reach 60 students.
This time, our audience were two groups of AVID (Advancement Via Independent Determination) students. Miguel was able to share his story and speak about the stories we all hold as individuals- no matter where we come from.
“You are the author to your life story”
The students engaged in an interesting dialogue about how the decisions we make impact us, the importance of determination, and ridding ourselves of the negative voices that hinder us daily.
The students asked questions like, “if you could go back in time, what would you do differently.” To this Miguel answered, “ I would have more conversations with adults and be more aware of myself-I wish I knew of the power I held over my life back then.”
Miguel spoke about his journey with education and spoke on how the stumbles in his life allowed him to realize the purpose in second chances.
We are currently experiencing critical period in our country. We live in times where judgements and barriers are placed upon us based on the way we look, how we dress, and where we come from. It is our responsibility to support our youth now more than ever in order to empower them to discover the power they possess; to remind them that their identities should not dictate their limits but instead help them find beauty in their uniqueness.
To students:
“For many of you, this conversation is your second chance. It doesn’t matter what you’ve done in the past, I’d like you to take what you heard here today, make a change, and go tell others about it.”
-Paul, Intervention Counselor, Waite Middle school
Written by Jennifer Covarrubias