My escape from the world has always been reading and writing. In elementary school, it was extremely difficult for me to articulate my thoughts while speaking to teachers and my classmates. However, I discovered that when I wrote, I was able to precisely encapsulate my opinions, thoughts, and feelings. I’d never leave the house without a book, and that transitioned into me keeping one in my car or backpack throughout high school. My love for reading also allowed me to better communicate my thoughts, as I gained more and more exposure to words and their meanings. While everyone in my family seemed to pursue their passions in STEM, I’ve always found myself drawn back to literature and language.
Ever since I was born, I’ve attended a Korean church where the community is as young as newborns all the way to elders. Because it’s a predominantly Korean church, there was a prevalent language barrier between the older and younger generations. My grandmother was one of the elders that had difficulties communicating with the younger generation as her English isn’t proficient. Seeing her struggle to communicate broke my heart, so I began teaching my grandmother and her friends after our Sunday worship service.
During these sessions, I was able to help them improve their English, whether it was texting or conversational skills. I was able to teach in both Korean and English, making sure that they didn’t ever feel uncomfortable and were able to move at their pace. We were able to act out conversation scenarios and go through how to write a polished text or email. Being able to help and give back to the elders that had taken care of me since I was a toddler was extremely rewarding. It has been extremely valuable and eye-opening to help the elders break down the English language barrier through reading and writing instruction. It also made me realize the impact writing and English has on our world and how essential it is to be able to effectively communicate with those around us.
Literature not only has the ability to change the way people think and view life, but it is also purely enjoyable. I love being able to curl up in a blanket with a hot latte and a new book. A good book is able to completely immerse people into a story, bringing it to life. I think this is one of the most unique and special aspects about written stories, as we’re able to imagine it ourselves and create a beautiful illustration to follow our thoughts.