Hate is one of the strongest words in the English language. For me, however, It has been an everyday reality. This reality has constructed my scholastic aspirations and defined my ambitions of achievement. My parents left India hoping to find opportunity and justice. However, as Sikh immigrants with no English speaking ability and only elementary school certificates to their names, they found themselves ostracized from job opportunities and polarized by society. In addition, their culture and religion was not embraced...

To create change, I must be more than a catalyst; I must be the impetus of reform. In my hometown of Richmond Hill, NY, many do not aspire to achieve higher education other than an ordinary educational experience at the local community college. Specifically, within my Sikh community, the majority of high school students come from immigrant backgrounds and face problems learning English, which amplifies the effects of failing classes, poor attendance, and bullying from ignorant peers for wearing turbans...