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)
No comments:
Post a Comment