https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr About The Author: As a daughter of two immigrant parents, I learned the value of hard work and determination. I am the bridge between two different worlds, El Salvador and the United States. My name is Katherine. My experiences growing up in America from the 20th into the 21st century influenced my upbringing in indescribable ways. From 9/11 and the legalization of same sex marriage, to advancements in technology and the first Black president of the United States, I am living through a pivotal time in American history. Being a first generation American, has allowed me to stay in touch with my roots and embrace the language, values, and traditions of El Salvador. Personal events and personal relationships also play a direct impact in my life by influencing my beliefs, goals, and values. My history consists of the past, past, and future. en-us 2020-09-13 19:34:09 UTC 2025-03-21 01:05:52 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet.net/icons/png/1f9dc-2640.png katerangg https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742125119 In 1987, my father finished his two month long journey to the United States from El Salvador. In 1989, my mother immigrated from El Salvador to the United States. Both of my parents came to the United States not being able to speak English fluently, had a poor understanding of American culture, and no guaranteed job or place of living. All they had was a dream of earning a better living. This is a significant event in my life because it expanded and enriched my worldview.]]> 2020-09-13 19:40:33 UTC https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742125119 katerangg https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742131462 I was born on February 22, 1997 on Long Island, New York. I was born into a family with one mother, one father, and one older half sister. Despite having different fathers, me and my sister were very close growing up and to this day, she continues to serve as one of the most significant individuals in my life. Growing up, I was also jealous that my family is small compared to other Latino families. Eventually, I learned the importance of quality over quantity.]]> 2020-09-13 19:48:02 UTC https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742131462 katerangg https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742138763 On this day, I was only a few days into my first year of school as Kindergarten student at Smith Street Elementary School. Faculty and staff from our school received the news that the Twin Towers in New York City were under attack. Tension and fear spread throughout the school. In the upcoming years, I remember an increase in Islamophobia in American society.]]> 2020-09-13 19:56:21 UTC https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742138763 katerangg https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742152936 In May 2018, I was the first in my immediate family to graduate from community college with an associate degree. It took me three years to complete my associate degree but throughout those years, I learned a lot about myself as an individual and a student. By the end of the spring semester, I decided I wanted to pursue a career in education. ]]> 2020-09-13 20:13:22 UTC https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742152936 katerangg https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742156762 On January 7, 2014, my nephew Christopher was born. Since I was the youngest in my family, helping my sister care for him and watching him grow was a new experience for me. As he got older, I had to learn to be patient, supporting, and nurturing. He was my daily reminder to never stop working on myself in order to be a positive figure in his life and those around me. ]]> 2020-09-13 20:18:10 UTC https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742156762 katerangg https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742217432 In 2005, my mom and my dad officially ended their relationship. My dad moved out on his own and my mom, my sister, and I moved across town. As a result, I was obligated to transfer to California Avenue Elementary School where I completed fourth and fifth grade. My dad and I maintained a strong relationship despite the circumstances and living with strong independent women allowed me to embrace and transition into womanhood.]]> 2020-09-13 21:33:59 UTC https://padlet.com/katerangg/3myojthb5br9v9rr/wish/742217432