Cultural Selfie by Jennifer Campuzano

Jennifer

jenxcamp — 2024-11-30 00:33:18 UTC

My name is Jennifer Campuzano. Growing up, I never liked how many other Jennifers there were, so when I was in middle school, I would give myself names that I liked, such as Scarlett or Julia. Sometimes I wanted to be different, so I chose alternative spellings of "Jenny" or "Jenni," like Jennie or Janey, inspired by movies. It took me a while to get used to my name, but now I am proud of it and love being called Campuzano, which I discovered is the name of a village in Spain. The name Jennifer means "peace of God," "leader," and "restoration" in Hebrew.

Important object

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 06:44:53 UTC

It might seem like a box with a bunch of junk, but it's my box of junk. I struggled during my early teen years, which landed me a few therapists, one of whom would come to my home. This was the first activity we did together. She wanted me to create a box and decorate it and fill it with things that brought me joy. I used to make dream catchers, so it had my craft supplies, handwritten notes from friends, my diary from 8th grade (my spelling at that age was scary), pictures, concert tickets, and souvenirs from traveling.

Favorite Book: The Important Book

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 07:18:43 UTC

I loved this book so much that I read the entire Dear Dumb Diary book series. I was a struggling reader so completing it helped boost my confidence. The book also inspired me to express myself more through writing. I believe this book would be great for MLs.

Reconsider my perspective

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 08:04:07 UTC

For three summers, I volunteered with a medical team. This experience helped me recognize the opportunities I had and understand my parents' reasons for bringing us here. Though we hadn't had it easy, I learned resilience. I realized that everything would be okay eventually; I just have to make sure to keep fighting for myself.

Favorite characteristic

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 08:48:12 UTC

My favorite character trait is being silly. No matter what situation I am in I always know how to make myself laugh. I like to extend that to others, a joke and a solution. Or simply to make others comfortable.

Strength on teaching culturally diverse students

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 09:13:19 UTC

I believe my strength in teaching culturally diverse students is seeing them as another being deserving of respect regardless of their age or my authority. I always care to get to know my students—who they are, what they are going through, their view of the world, and what they like and do not like. The best way to get students to learn is to build connections and let them know you have their best interest at heart. This allows students to engage and participate all while building a safe, respectful classroom community.

Literacy practices of everyday life

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 09:41:12 UTC

My everyday literacy practices include texting, TikTok, Instagram, music, and signs on walls.

Self-portrait

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 09:57:59 UTC

I realized I had no pictures by myself! Well here is an aspiring teacher. I truly hope I can make a difference in my students' lives. I am kind and determined.

Favorite book

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 10:19:09 UTC

This was another great book I remember reading in fourth grade. I have a vivid memory of reading this book under a desk and loving how it included a map of the church.

Community support

jenxcamp — 2024-12-02 10:37:24 UTC

My mom has always been very close to the church. Growing up, I attended services three times a week—sometimes even more. The friendships my mom built within the church community meant that there were always people looking out for us. If she had to work, the church bus or fellow church member would pick us up. One way or another my mom made sure we were going to be there.

Fortunately, during tough times, we were able to stay at the church until my mom got back on her feet. To this day, my mom feels indebted to the church for taking care of us, and I share that gratitude. I am thankful for how many people looked out for me, even when I was unaware of the challenges we faced. Their support meant a lot to us.

Reflection

jenxcamp — 2024-12-04 16:29:46 UTC