Randy Guzman

AP English Literature
Reflection 1
Nicholas Steed
May 16, 2016
Randy Guzman: Scholar, Creator, and Activist
Los Angeles Leadership Academys mission and mandala words resonate in every
students mind from the moment they walk through the schools doors for the first time to the
moment they graduate. Additionally, Creator, Scholar, and Activist become words that are
engraved in every students mind forever. However, we do not remember the schools principle
and motto because we want to. The schools motto has been engraved in our minds because of
the countless essays that have been assigned to us regarding our development as scholars,
creators, and activists.
Though this writing topic has been assigned once again, I am pleased that it will be the
last time I have to write about it.
The first time I was ever given this prompt occurred when I was a freshman here at the
high school. On the second week of school my advisor said, Guys, this schools goal is to
empower you to become scholars, creators, and activists. I need you to write about how you
think this school will help you get there. At first I was puzzled. How am I supposed to write
about this when I hardly know what goes on in this school? I thought.
Being the introverted individual that I am, I did not ask for help and began writing. I
remember foolishly writing about helping others with their homework, assisting the elderly, and
taking an art class. In my mind, that would establish myself as a scholar, creator, and activist.

Now, as I prepare to write this final essay, I have come to understand what those three
words truly represent here at LALA. These words are meant to act as motivators for the students
here. Those three words are supposed to remind us that our journey through high school should
not be in vain. That our time here should inspire us to express our uniqueness, shape ourselves,
and impact the world. However, this is easier said than done. It is only due to writing
assignments like these that I am reminded of the work being done at this school.
Four years after writing my first essay about being a creator, activist, and scholar, I have
realized what this journey through LALA has meant for me.
My time here as LALA, more than anything else, has developed me as a scholar. Due to
LALAs unique teaching style, I had been taught by young, enthusiasts teachers. Additionally,
due to the schools student to teacher ratio, I have always had the opportunity to seek help from
my teachers. I have come to realize that the relationships with my teachers have taught me the
most while at LALA.
As a creator, I have been able to express my creativity through the various artworks I
have produced in my four years taking art. Culminating with my AP Studio Art class, I have
explored an artistic side of my mind I did not know existed.
Finally, LALA has helped develop into an activist. It can go without saying that had I not
attended Los Angeles Leadership Academy I would not have grown into an activist. LALA has
opened my eyes to the reality of the inequality occurring in my community. Events like Cesar
Chavez Day of Service and thanksgiving food drives have helped me help those in need while at
the same time inspiring others to do the same.
The experience Los Angeles Leadership Academy has provided me with has truly been a
unique one. This school has helped me become to individual I am today. The words that once

meant nothing to me are now the words that inspire me to seek a higher education and change the
world. Now, as I graduate and move on to college, being an Activist, Creator, and Scholar
will be my motivators for the rest of my life.