Miss Representation

            In AP Language and Composition we have been watching a documentary called ‘Miss Representation’ that deals with gender and gender roles. It tackles many different ideas and presents multiple statistics, but this video inspired me more to think about my views on beauty and self-worth rather than what the statistics meant. If you want to familiarize yourself with the documentary, feel free to check it out here.

            Growing up and maturing comes with figuring out who you are, what you like, and learning new things, sometimes from your own experiences too. Elementary school is a new beginning and monument in life because it’s a fresh start with a bunch of other little ones in the same position as you. Everyone is your friend, and yes there could be some bullying, especially on those dreaded bus rides to and from school, but it’s not that bad. Middle school is a very awkward time for many. It’s the center of social cliques, groups, and ‘parties’/get-togethers. Often feelings get hurt, and it’s the beginning of your style and personality forming when around others who are not your family. As you transition to high school, you are the “big dogs” on the social ladder, for the most part. Obviously there is still some separation (ex: seniors, juniors, sophomores, freshmen) in descending order of “importance.”

            In high school there is also a lot of pressure to look a certain way and be a certain way. This is a big misrepresentation of what is truly important in school and more importantly, life. Perfect hair, perfect makeup, brand name clothes, super skinny/petite, perfect assets, tan, designer shoes, designer jewelry, iPhone. These all scream social norms in high school and what you have to wear and have to be popular. If you don’t embody these things, you are automatically rejected, outcasted, and judged.

            Although these stereotypes exist, I feel like anyone has the power to choose to not go down that path and give in to what’s accepted as ‘cool.’ I chose to be my own person, and I am extremely happy with the way I am. Be your own person…. You’ll feel better about yourself and you should! Your own style is what’s important, and the only thing that’s important is if you are happy. It doesn’t matter what other people think. I do believe that it’s important to care about what you look like and care about what you wear to some degree, but there’s a difference between it taking over your life, and having some simple respect for yourself.  (425)