With my mother working, I had no transportation to get to activities. I could not do any kind of volunteer work. However, there were things I could do right at school. I had had to work very hard to learn English, so I knew what it meant to struggle. I tutored friends in subjects I did very well in, math and science. In return, these friends were able to give me a ride home. I would be the first to admit that helping friends study is not as impressive a contribution to society as working for the Red Cross, or at an animal shelter, or some other things my classmates were able to do. However, as my mother said, I played the hand I was dealt, and I believe I contributed to the small community that was my high school in this way. In addition, helping others with these studies...

I had to deal with Tourette's, and a new language, and limited opportunities in high school, and the ongoing fact that my family could not live together. But at the same time I know other students my age have faced similar difficulties. Some came from broken homes, or were very poor, or had a learning disability and struggled to get through school.
I am certain that my classmates' struggles have made them better people just as I think what I have had to overcome has made me a better person. I feel particularly blessed that I was able to come back to America and get to know the land of my birth. I am fortunate to have the insights and wisdom of two great cultures and countries as I face the challenges to come.