Endings always leave me with a bittersweet taste.
As I reflect on my time in this program, I can’t help but feel a mixture of gratitude and sadness. I can’t imagine a life where I never met the people within this program, and at the same time, I can’t imagine moving on from them and the program either. The friendships I’ve made, the skills I honed, and the knowledge I gained will always stay with me, though. They have become a part of who I am, and their impact will continue to shape my future.
When I look back at the past four weeks, I see the immense progress I have made. It’s incredible to think about how much I have learned and grown in such a short period of time. I am proud of myself, more than words can express. The confidence and sense of accomplishment I now feel have given me a new perspective on life. I know that I am capable of achieving great things, and I am motivated to pursue my dreams with even more determination.
Before this program, my dreams seemed impossible. I had envisioned myself meeting a variety of professionals and passionate adults, but I never thought it would become a reality. This program shattered my limitations and opened doors I thought weren’t accessible to me. It gave me an opportunity unlike any other, bringing the American Dream within my reach.
During one of the most important class discussions this week, we explored the concept of the “American Dream.” Professor Lopez had to cut the conversation short due to time constraints, but I could feel the energy in the room. Each of us brought our unique backgrounds and perspectives to the table, and I was eager to listen to what they had to say.
In the text, “By Any Media Necessary: The New Youth Activism,” it is stated that “young people evoke the American Dream” and that “it is being rewritten to include not just economic prosperity, but also the affordances of citizenship” (187). I felt this deeply resonate with me. As the child of immigrants from El Salvador, I see my parents’ version of the American Dream reflected in their aspirations for me.
Their dream was simple yet profound—to provide me with opportunities they never had, to secure a stable and fulfilling life for their family. They dreamed for me, and now, as I begin to take charge of my life, I realize the significance of their sacrifices and unwavering support.
This program has not only contributed to my dream but also to theirs. It has become a bridge between generations, a catalyst for progress and change. I am lucky enough to have had this experience and to have met incredible people who have become an unforgettable part of my journey. The memories we created, the laughter we shared, and the challenges we overcame together will forever hold a special place in my heart.
As I bid farewell to this program and the people who have touched my life, I carry with me a renewed sense of purpose and a burning desire to make a difference. I feel prepared to leave, yet grief still remains.
Endings may be bittersweet, but they also mark new beginnings. And as I turn the page to the next chapter of my life, I do so with gratitude, determination, and my dreams at the forefront of my mind. The American Dream, once as distant as the sun, is now within my grasp, and I feel its light.
Communicating Change 