https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun Made with big dreams en-us 2017-09-05 01:10:14 UTC 2017-09-06 14:35:44 UTC hello@padlet.com amedina9 https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184603709 This was the time that I moved out of the South side of Chicago, into a small farm town called Plano. This was a significant time in my life because I left the CPS system in the middle of first grade into a school district that was far better, even though it was within a region of small and large farm towns. My attitude towards my academics completely changed at such a young age because I realized how unprepared I was in comparison to the other students. I immediately began striving to become a better student from that point on, which resulted in many successes later in my life.]]> 2017-09-05 01:16:02 UTC https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184603709 amedina9 https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184606803 My grandfather, who had been battling cancer for over 10 years, passed away at this time. This impacted me due to my close relationship with; he was basically my second dad. I felt as though I lost a large part of myself because I grew up respecting and caring for this person. It was a situation that I never had to deal, and it was strange knowing I would never be able to see him again. Sadness did not quite yet dawn on me, and I still am not exactly sure as to why that is. It was through this situation that I learned the deeper meaning behind mortality and developed a stronger sense of self-preservation. Also, it was this event that ignited my already-founded desire to pursue a career in the medical field. ]]> 2017-09-05 01:40:44 UTC https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184606803 amedina9 https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184809436 It was towards the end of the month that my parents became separated and began their divorce process. Their separation took a toll on my emotional health and, consequently, my academics. At the time, I was not too confident with my ability to adapt to change, let alone change of that magnitude. I felt like my life was falling apart, which was not ideal while managing the stress produced by high school. After time, I stabilized my mind, which helped me "bounce back" from the issues that followed my parents' separation. Looking back, I realized that I managed to strengthen my adaptability, and  I developed a stronger connection with my family, along with a deeper appreciation.  ]]> 2017-09-05 15:50:12 UTC https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184809436 amedina9 https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184893809 After struggling with a 5 year identity crisis, I was finally able to come to terms with my sexual orientation. Being different was something I was already accustomed to; however, I did not want to give others around me any more of a reason to treat me differently. Even after I "came out" to those that were close to me, I didn't feel the need to let everyone know my personal business, so I kept that private for the most part. As time progressed, I became infinitely more comfortable with the concept of intersectionality, and I no longer felt like i had to hide myself from others. This point in my life sparked an intense confidence that I now pride myself on having; I am not afraid to discuss any of my identities as they are all small parts in a large mosaic. Through this I also learned how to use empathy to help those whose shoes I've once been in. I learned that it is imperative to provide guidance to those that need it, especially when i understand the struggles that are comprised in each group I identify with. ]]> 2017-09-05 18:41:22 UTC https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184893809 amedina9 https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184902931 A few weeks ago, I moved into my dorm here at Loyola. Obviously, college is a large milestone in everybody's life; however, for me, it means something much more significant. I moved into a university that adopted an incredibly accepting community; I have never felt more welcomed in any other institution than I have at Loyola. It has thus far been an unforgettable experience, given the exceedingly liberal environment. Loyola's atmosphere is one in which everybody's situation is placed into consideration. Being here has created a deeper appreciation for diversity and acceptance within myself. Also, Loyola fuels my passion in seeking social justice for all marginalized communities: race, religion, socioeconomic status, sexual orientation, etc. I feel as though coming here was the best decision I've probably ever made because all aspects of myself seem to be thriving at this institution. ]]> 2017-09-05 19:01:27 UTC https://padlet.com/amedina9/lsgajwnaaxun/wish/184902931