September, 29th 2017:

This month has been hectic, Ive been very much involved in the revitalization of

Our CASA. I was able to set up several meetings with various program advisers about

who Our CASA is and what our mission and overall goal is at West High, I also talked to

them about what their role would be at Our CASA. Essentially what I am trying to do is

streamline the programs under one roof, so that Our CASA can be a center in which the

students of West High School could obtain and access information regarding to higher

education. Ive also been working with the Student Advisory Council in creating an event

surrounding the topic of Food Insecurity on campus, right now we are in our infancy

trying to get our ideas solidified. I have spoken to several individuals on campus about

this event trying to get clubs, student leadership and departments to be part of this

statewide initiative to raise food and awareness on campus. The conversations that I

have had have been overly positive and everyone seems to be on board, all I need to

do is start coming up with campaign ideas, posters, art . . . something to catch the

attention of the staff and the student population.

What Ive learned concerning food insecurity in America is that one out of five

students are living in conditions of low level food security and that thirteen percent of

students who attend community colleges are homeless. These numbers are staggering

and reflective considering the state of our education system that drives students into

debt, this is why I want to do my best to raise awareness about this issue and
emphasise the need for resources like the food pantry that provides a place of relief for

students. As for access to higher education thats another big issue, at west theyve

managed to receive a name that states the clear dichotomy of the haves and have nots

2-West is a good description of the cultural hegemony that they continue to sustain. I

hope to rekindle the fire of these program advisors and raise the issue of the

achievement gap that will only get worse if they continue to cater to the small group of

affluent families. I want to save these students from going down the path that me and

many of my family took, I want them to know that they are worth something, that they

too can be college material, that it isnt just for those who can afford it or have the

grades. This elitist mindset needs to end and I will do what I can to serve this

community.

Ive been taking Seans SLSS 2100 and it has been a relief to be part of a

classroom that can address the many issues that plague our country and being

surrounded by peers who are open minded and willing to participate in the community to

see a change. Ive been struggling with Math and my Chem and with the horrific events

that took place this week Im losing hope in my ability to perform, I cant give up, not

now, but Im scared and hopeless, maybe next month Ill find the answers to my

impediment.